Pretoria - There was excitement at the Mediclinic Heart Hospital in Pretoria on Thursday when a soccer star arrived to wish former president Nelson Mandela well on his 95th birthday.
The arrival of Kaizer Chiefs and Bafana Bafana captain Itumeleng Khune added to the festive atmosphere as well-wishers gathered around the hospital for Mandela's birthday.
People used their cellphones to capture video footage of the revellers and dignitaries.
Khune emerged from the hospital and said: “On behalf of Kaizer Chiefs and Bafana Bafana, I am here to wish Mandela a happy 95th. I am privileged and honoured to be here and thank you for the support, coming out in large numbers to show love and respect for former president Mandela.
“He will always be respected and loved by the whole world.”
When Khune left the hospital, police had to intervene as soccer fans crowded his car, shouting and trying to take photographs.
Presidency spokesman Mac Maharaj said in a statement earlier that Madiba's health was steadily improving. He was admitted to the hospital on June 8 with a recurring lung infection. - Sapa