Former South African leader Nelson Mandela is in a stable condition, his granddaughter says, though he remains critical, according to BBC News.

Ndileka Mandela said the 94-year-old's family were taking comfort from messages of support from the public. "He's stable and we'd like to say that we thank everybody for giving their support and praying with us... we are anxious as you know that he is critical but he's in a stable condition right now," she said.

His daughter Makaziwe said he was "still there" and responding to touch.

South Africa's first black president has been in hospital in Pretoria since June 8with a lung infection.

His health has worsened in recent days, prompting current President Jacob Zuma to cancel a foreign visit. He has now arrived back at the hospital.

Emotional crowds continue to gather outside. They have been adding messages of support for Mandela, known by his clan name Madiba.Children released 94 balloons into the air in his honor.

Makaziwe said that while the situation was serious he was still responsive.

"I won't lie, it doesn't look good. But as I say, if we speak to him, he responds and tries to open his eyes. He's still there. He might be waning off, but he's still there," she told public broadcaster SABC.