Johannesburg - Former president Nelson Mandela was everyone's parent and therefore his discharge from hospital was a cause for celebration all over the world, the Mandela family said on Sunday.
“The family is cognisant of the fact that millions of people in the country and around the world regard Madiba as their parent and therefore get as concerned about his well-being as members of his family,” his grandson Mandla Mandela said in a statement.
On Saturday, the global icon was discharged from hospital after spending nine days recovering from pneumonia.
He will now receive medical care at his home in Houghton, Johannesburg.
“The past few days since Madiba was admitted to hospital, the family has been deeply touched by the outpouring of prayers and the overwhelming messages of goodwill from all South Africans and our international friends.”
His grandson said that the family was “ecstatic” that Mandela was home and continued to recuperate well for a man of his age.
“Nkosi Dalibhunga (Mandela) is taking his condition in his strides as he normally does with all challenges in his life.”
He extended gratitude to the SA National Defence Force doctors who had treated his grandfather.
“We would also like to laud the presidency for their sterling job in keeping the public updated about Madiba's health.”
Meanwhile, the Democratic Alliance said its members would continue “to think of and pray for Madiba”. - Sapa