Gozo Bishop Emeritus Nikol Cauchi is no longer under sedation but his condition remains critical.

The 81-year-old bishop is in intensive care at Mater Dei Hospital after suffering heart failure as a result of pneumonia.

As his chest infection starting responding to medical treatment, doctors ceased sedation. But he remains in a stable condition on a ventilator and under the effects of sedative treatment.

Gozo Bishop Mario Grech and Archbishop Emeritus Joseph Mercieca were among those who visited him yesterday.

Mgr Cauchi was admitted to Gozo General Hospital on Wednesday after complaining of shortness of breath before being transferred by helicopter to Mater Dei the following day.

His family thanked the public for their prayers and messages of support, though they also appealed for his privacy to be respected.

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