Nelson Mandela released from hospital, remains in Johannesburg for care
December 27, 2012
The former leader of South Africa, Nelson Mandela, has been dealing with a series of health issues, according to The Associated Press. The 94-year-old anti-apartheid icon will now remain in Johannesburg after a stay in the hospital for a lung infection the past three weeks.
Mandela, who is called by his clan name Madiba, has been spending the last few years in the rural village of Qunu, which is where he grew up. However, for the time being, he will not be able to return to Qunu until he does not need the immediate medical care.
"Where Madiba goes, in which period, in which times, is a matter that is entirely dependent on his own wishes. Whatever he wishes, we will do," presidential spokesman Mac Maharaj told eNCA. "But right now, the doctors have considered it necessary and good that he should be in Houghton so that he's close to all the facilities where we can give him high care."
Those who want to talk about Mandela's status can make calls to South Africa using international calling cards.