Mbombela - Mpumalanga Premier David Mabuza and his provincial government have joined the country and the world in praying for former president Nelson Mandela.
The elderly former statesman has been in hospital since June 8 due to a recurring lung infection. Doctors describe his condition as stable but critical.
According to Mabuza's spokesman, the prayers will be held in all the municipalities across the province.
"There is a series of praying events planned by the provincial government throughout the province, where various citizens gather together to pray for the former President," said Zibonele Mncwango on Monday.
He said the premier had kick-started the prayers when he and officials from the provincial government paused for half an hour on Friday to pray for Madiba.
"The prayer was held during the special local government summit at the Mbombela Stadium. Prayers were done by Islamic and Christian religious leaders who attended the summit," said Mncwango.
During the Friday prayer, Mabuza said it was appropriate for the citizens of Mpumalanga to be involved in the prayers planned throughout the municipalities.
“We are quite aware that the former President is an old man, but we believe he can still live with us. We still need him,” said Mabuza, adding that it would be very difficult to live without him.
“On behalf of the provincial government, we extend our prayers to his family. We believe that (they) know (how much the) people of Mpumalanga love the former President." – SAnews.gov.za
