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Winnie Madikizela-Mandela's family wants privacy

Cape Town - The family of former first lady Winnie Madikizela-Mandela has pleaded with the public and the media to give them privacy with during her illness and hospitalisation, her spokesperson said to News24 on Sunday.

“The family appreciates the well wishes, but they would like the media and everybody else to respect their privacy,” said Madikizela-Mandela’s personal assistant, Zodwa Zwane.

Zwane, in a statement dated 11 April, said Madikizela-Mandela was admitted to hospital on 7 March and underwent surgery on her back on 8 March. She said the ANC stalwart was scheduled for follow-up surgery on 14 April.

"The family is thankful for your prayers and support whilst they appreciate your respect for their privacy,” read the statement.

Zwane would not be drawn on giving further details on Madikizela-Mandela's health.

A source close to the family told News24 that Madikizela-Mandela was struggling to recover from the back operation. “Her being a diabetic does not help either. Remember she is old as well,” said the source, who asked not to be named.

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