A group of unidentified relatives carry bunches of flowers that were left by wellwishers into the Mediclinic Heart Hospital where former South African President Nelson Mandela is being treated in Pretoria, South Africa, June 27, 2013.
Mandela's Daughter Says Former President 'Very Critical'
The daughter of Nelson Mandela says the former South African president is in "very critical" condition.
Makaziwe Mandela spoke to state radio Thursday as members of the family gathered at Pretoria's Mediclinic Heart Hospital, where Mandela has spent the past 19 days.
President Jacob Zuma canceled a planned trip to Mozambique late Wednesday after visiting Mandela in the hospital.
Crowds of well-wishers remain outside the facility paying tribute to the anti-apartheid icon through posters, songs and prayer.
Many said they hope he can recover but are ready to see him go if it will spare him pain.
The 94-year-old Nobel Peace laureate was hospitalized June 8 for a recurring lung infection. A statement from the president's office says doctors are still doing everything they can to ensure Mandela's well-being.
On Tuesday, Cape Town Archbishop Thabo Makgoba offered a prayer that Mandela, the nation's first black president, be granted a "peaceful, perfect end."
U.S. President Barack Obama is scheduled to arrive in South Africa Friday as part of his week-long visit to the continent. He will visit Robben Island, where Mandela was imprisoned for 27 years under apartheid.
Photo Gallery:
Crowds Gather Outside Nelson Mandela's Hospital
Crowds of well-wishers are outside Pretoria's Mediclinic Heart Hospital to pay tribute to the anti-apartheid icon through posters, songs and prayer.
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