Nelson Mandela condition unchanged still serious

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The presidency said Mr Mandela's condition was unchanged and confirmed that he was in intensive care.Prayers have been said in churches across the country for Mr Mandela, who is being treated for a lung infection.

Mr Mandela, 94, was taken to hospital early on Saturday, the third time this year he has been admitted.

The presidency said he had been ill for some days at his Johannesburg home, with a recurrence of his long-standing lung problems.

He was admitted to hospital after his condition worsened at 01:30 on Saturday (23:30 GMT Friday).

The government said in a statement: "President Jacob Zuma reiterates his call for South Africa to pray for Madiba and the family during this time." Madiba is Mr Mandela's clan name.

In releasing the latest update, presidency spokesman Mac Maharaj also denied that visitors were being blocked from seeing Mr Mandela.