Nelson Mandela is on life support, according to a South African tribal chief.
In South Africa's Eastern Cape province, where Mandela grew up, a traditional leader said the time was near for Mandela, who is also known by his clan name, Madiba.
'I am of the view that if Madiba is no longer enjoying life, and is on life support systems, and is not appreciating what is happening around him, I think the good Lord should take the decision to put him out of his suffering,' said the tribal chief, Phathekile Holomisa.
'I did speak to two of his family members, and of course, they are in a lot of pain, and wish that a miracle might happen, that he recovers again, and he becomes his old self again,' he said.
'But at the same time they are aware there is a limit to what miracles you can have.'
A South African newspaper has also reported the anti-Apartheid icon is on life support, citing numerous sources close to the family.
The Citizen newspaper says Mandela has a team of doctors supporting him at a Pretoria hospital.
One source was quoted as saying that Mr Mandela's family had the option to switch off the ventilator.
South African President Jacob Zuma cancelled a trip to neighbouring Mozambique, intensifying speculation about the deterioration of Mandela's life.
Zuma made his decision not to leave the country after visiting the 94-year-old late yesterday in the Pretoria hospital where he has been receiving treatment for a lung infection for nearly three weeks.
'Clearly the issue of seriousness has been such that President Jacob Zuma has cancelled his trip,' presidential spokesman Mac Maharaj told Talk Radio 702.
He declined to comment on reports that Mandela was on life support, saying: 'I cannot confirm any clinical details.'
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