Mandela hospitalised

South Africa’s former President Nelson Mandela was yesterday admitted to a military hospital for medical tests.

A statement by President Jacob Zuma’s spokesman said there was “no cause for alarm” over the 94-year-old icon’s health. It said the former president was doing well and was receiving medical care “which is consistent for his age.”

Mandela, who spent 27 years in prison for fighting racist white rule, became South Africa’s first black president in 1994 and served one five-year term. He later retired from public life to live in his village of Qunu, and last made a public appearance when his country hosted the 2010 World Cup soccer tournament.

“We wish Madiba all the best,” Zuma said in the statement, using Mandela’s clan name. “The medical team is assured of our support as they look after and ensure the comfort of our beloved founding president of a free and democratic South Africa.”