BEIJING, June 26 (Xinhuanet) -- The latest official word on Nelson Mandela’s health is that the former leader is still in a critical condition. That’s according to the South African presidency. Millions are waiting for news from the hospital, and hoping.
He’s had four visits to hospital inside six months but still the news of Nelson Mandela’s rapid decline has left this country in shock, and fearing the worst.
The presidency released an official update on Tuesday - but just to say the 94-year-old is no better. And so the tributes now are pouring in.
A flock of white doves released by well-wishers outside the hospital. And a sombre line of police cadets. Mandela’s example is still felt by the younger generation.
Noma Binqela, said, “It’s a big thing for them as trainees to be part of this - what the country’s going through. So to have these flowers there, is a symbol that we can leave to say we are praying for our Tata to get well soon.”
In Mandela’s old home in Soweto too, a realization that the time to say thank you, may be running out. And that persistent plea from people for just a little more time.
Isaac Mabena, Soweto Resident, said, "My message will be simple: a speedy recovery. Because we as a nation and his family we need him more than we did in the past. That’s all I can say. Let the old man pick up as soon as he can because the whole nation and the whole world needs him more than ever before."
But on Monday, the president again urged South Africa to be prepared.
Jacob Zuma, South African President, said, “I think we must accept that Nelson Mandela is very old and that his health will begin to trouble him. I think what we must do is pray.”
Flying over the hospital on Tuesday, five U.S. military helicopters, a precursor to the planned visit of President Barack Obama later this week. Usually an event of global importance - now completely overshadowed.
Nelson Mandela has now been in hospital 18 days and remains extremely ill those brief but fairly regular updates from the presidency don’t seem to be re-assuring. The nation now can only wait - and hope - that Mandela the fighter can again hold on.
(Source: CNTV.cn)
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