Zuma’s illness raises questions for S. Africa opposition
The cancellation of a campaign rally suggests the former president’s party is reliant on his leadership and charisma.
Recent health concerns surrounding former South African President Jacob Zuma have cast doubt on the future of uMkhonto weSizwe (MK), the party he founded. The 84-year-old was hospitalized two weeks ago, with conflicting reports from MK officials and the Zuma Foundation regarding his condition. Initially, MK claimed Zuma was healthy and receiving routine checks, but the foundation later stated he remained hospitalized and refused regular updates.
MK's cancellation of its main rally, Siyathatha, less than three weeks before the municipal elections highlights the party's instability. Zuma's central role in MK, launched in 2021, has made his absence particularly problematic. With MK gaining nearly 15% of the vote in the 2024 general election, the party has emerged as a significant political force, contributing to the ANC's loss of its parliamentary majority for the first time since the end of apartheid.
However, Zuma's absence from public campaigning has raised questions about whether the party can maintain its momentum without him. Natasha Marrian, a political analyst, notes that Zuma remains the central drawcard for the party. MK's first deputy president, Duduzane Zuma, is seen as a potential successor, but his lack of political experience and unknown status could pose challenges.
The ANC, which has been weakened by Zuma's absence, may benefit from the situation, according to independent analyst Musa Xulu. The Constitutional Court recently ruled in the ANC's favor, allowing 181 disqualified candidates to return to the ballot for the 4 November 2026 local government elections.
Written by urgent.news from Semafor's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
