Mandela undergoes procedure to remove gallstones

The Presidency wishes to provide the following update from the doctors treating former President Nelson Mandela:

The former President was hospitalized on 8 December 2012 for a series of tests to be carried out by the doctors. The tests revealed that there was a recurrence of the lung infection and that Madiba had developed gall stones. The medical team decided to attend to a lung infection before determining when to attend to the gall stones.

This morning, 15 December 2012, the former president underwent a procedure via endoscopy to have the gall stones removed. The procedure was successful and Madiba is recovering.

President Jacob Zuma, on behalf of all South Africans, wishes Madiba speedy recovery.

We wish to once again appeal for privacy for Madiba and family.