Mandela ‘in good spirits’

South Africa’s presidency says former president Nelson Mandela, who has been in a hospital since December 8, is looking better and in good spirits.

Presidential spokesperson Mac Maharaj said today that 94-year-old Mandela’s condition “remains as it was yesterday”.

President Jacob Zuma had joined Mandela’s wife, Graça Machel, and other family members in wishing a Merry Christmas to Mandela at his hospital bedside in Pretoria yesterday.

Mandela was diagnosed with a lung infection and also had a procedure to remove gallstones.

Officials have said Mandela is improving, but note that doctors are taking extraordinary care because of his age.

- Sapa-AP