JOHANNESBURG — The office of South Africa's president says former leader Nelson Mandela remains in critical but stable condition in a hospital, but is continuing to show improvement.

President Jacob Zuma is urging the public to continue praying for Mandela and is offering thanks to those who do charity work to honor the ideals of the 95-year-old former president and anti-apartheid figure.

Zuma's office relayed his message in a statement on Tuesday.

Mandela was hospitalized on June 8 for what the government said was a recurring lung infection.

His birthday on July 18 was marked by an outpouring of support from compatriots and people around the world, as well as campaigns to assist needy communities across South Africa.