The road leading to Milpark Hospital in Johannesburg, where former president Nelson Mandela is being treated, was heavily guarded by security officials on Friday morning.
Acting President Kgalema Motlanthe was expected to make a statement about Mandela's health at 12.30pm. Journalists had to explain why they were entering Guild Road, which leads to the main entrance of the hospital.
McAuley House, the neighbouring school, had put out free tea, coffee and hotdogs for reporters camped outside the medical facility.
Mandela's bodyguards were at the hospital, but none of his relatives had been seen.
Dozens of security guards milled around the hospital parking lot.
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