S R Nathan still in critical condition: PM

SINGAPORE – Former president SR Nathan remains critically ill and unconscious, said Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong at the start of his National Day Rally speech on Sunday (Aug 21).

"But he is restful and well taken care of by the team of doctors and nurses," added Mr Lee, who visited Mr Nathan at the Singapore General Hospital on Friday (Aug 19). Mr Lee also visited the former President on Aug 5, shortly after returning from an official visit to the United States. 

Mr Nathan, who was the Republic’s sixth and longest-serving President, suffered a stroke on the morning of Jul 31, and is still warded under intensive care. This is the second stroke the 92-year-old has suffered in two years.

He had been undergoing therapy as part of his recovery from a stroke in April last year.

"His family...has been touched by many of your good wishes," said Mr Lee, who recounted how Mr Nathan penned a handwritten note to him last year congratulating him on his rally speech.

“We continue to have him and his family in our thoughts and prayers.”