Zuma calls on South Africans to pray for Madiba

Madiba was admitted to a Pretoria hospital in the early hours of Saturday morning due to the recurrence of his lung infection. He remains in a serious but stable condition.

Speaking in the Eastern Cape yesterday, Zuma, who was quoted by The City Press newspaper, said: "In your name, I want to give a message to Tata Madiba who was admitted to hospital again this morning (yesterday). He must get well please. Please, our president Madiba must make a speedy recovery."

Mandela, 94, has a history of lung problems dating back to when he contracted tuberculosis as a political prisoner.

The Forum for Former African Heads of State and Government also wished Madiba well.

The forum, which includes former Presidents Joaquim Chissano and Nicephore Soglo of Mozambique and Benin respectively, said: "We join the peoples of South Africa, Africa and the world at large to pray for his recovery. We remain honoured by His Excellency's Patronage of the Africa Forum. It is our hope and exception that we can still count on his guidance and wisdom."