Restrictions Imposed On Foreign Media Coverage of Mandela

Some international journalists camped outside the Pretoria hospital where former president Nelson Mandela is receiving treatment have been issued with non-compliance warnings by the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (Icasa) on Wednesday.

ICASA's Paseka Maleka says anyone bringing broadcasting equipment into the country has to obtain prior approval to do so to prevent interference on frequencies used by local licenced services.

ICASA officials, accompanied by police, were checking whether equipment being used outside the hospital had been approved. International journalists raised questions on social media networks this evening, relating to ICASA's inspection.

Meanwhile, has responded better to treatment today, after "a difficult last few days". In a speech to Parliament earlier today, President Jacob Zuma also told South Africa and the world that they were very happy with the progress the elder statesman is making.

Madiba was rushed to the Pretoria Heart Hospital on Saturday morning. He is receiving treatment for a recurring lung infection. Family members continue to visit him at the hospital and it's believed his wife, Graca Machel, remains at his side.

Madiba's grandson, Mandla Mandela, was earlier seen at the hospital as well as the 94-year-old's former wife, Winnie Madikizela-Mandela. Madiba has spent his fifth day in hospital.

The Muslim Judicial Council also announced that they will be holding a special prayer vigil for former president Nelson Mandela in Cape Town this evening. Executive member, Shuaib Appleby, says they will be praying for the elderly statesman’s speedy recovery.

"This is our contribution and our way of expressing the concern and our love and admiration for Mr Mandela. And through this vigil we are creating the system of unity amongst the Muslim community and expressing our concern about the health of Mr Mandela," says Appleby.

Source: SABC