Johannesburg – Former president Nelson Mandela has been admitted to a Pretoria hospital "to undergo tests", the Presidency said on Saturday.
"President Jacob Zuma wishes to advise that former President Nelson Mandela has today, 8 December 2012, been admitted in hospital in Pretoria to undergo tests," said spokesman Mac Maharaj in a statement.
"As said before, former President Mandela will receive medical attention from time to time which is consistent with his age."
There was no cause for alarm, said Maharaj.
"President Zuma assures all that Madiba is doing well and there is no cause for alarm. We wish Madiba all the best. 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."
The Presidency appealed to the media and the public to respect the privacy of Mandela and his family. – Sapa