As Nelson Mandela spent his 29th day in a Pretoria hospital on Saturday, a parliamentarian called for the nation and its people to let the ailing former South African president "go in peace".
The 94-year-old is receiving treatment for a recurring lung infection, in his fourth hospitalisation in six months.
The failing health of Mandela, a figure admired globally as a symbol of struggle against injustice and racism, has reinforced a realisation that the father of the post-apartheid South Africa will not be around forever.
Kenneth Meshoe, President of the Africa Christian Democratic Party, paid a visit on Saturday to the Mediclinic where Mandela is being treated and laid flowers at the tribute wall outside.
(SOUNDBITE) (English) AFRICA CHRISTIAN DEMOCRATIC PARTY PRESIDENT, KENNETH MESHOE, SAYING:
"The nation of South Africa and the family, in particular, should be willing to let him go in peace. He has done enough for us, and we believe rather than him conti
