Nelson Mandela’s condition is grave.

Court documents show the former South African president faces “impending death.” and is being kept alive by a breathing machine.

The documents were filed in a court case that resulted in the remains of the former president’s three deceased children being reburied at his family gravesite.

Reports say Mandela’s health is “perilous” and he is being kept alive by life support.

Charlene Smith, an authorized biographer of the former anti-apartheid leader is quoted as saying “He’s basically gone. He’s not there.”

But a statement from president Jacob Zuma’s office says Mandela remains in critical but stable condition.

Mandela was imprisoned for 27 years during white racist rule and was freed in 1990 before being elected president in all-race elections. He won the Nobel Peace Prize along with former President F.W. de Klerk.