Uncertainty persists over Jacob Zuma’s hospital stay

Clarification remains surrounding former President Jacob Zuma's health and current status after an MK Party statement regarding his hospitalization, issued on Saturday, was subsequently removed. The 84-year-old has been in the hospital for over a week due to a routine medical examination. On Saturday, the MK Party claimed Zuma was "healthy and jovial" and ready to return to work following routine medical check-ups.

The medical team reportedly identified fatigue and advised him to rest under medical supervision, which he complied with at Netcare St Anne's Hospital in Pietermaritzburg. The party expressed gratitude for the medical staff's support, and Zuma reportedly returned home, actively participating in MK Party affairs.

The MK Party's health update was later deleted, causing uncertainty about Zuma's ongoing status. His family and party representatives have maintained a tight grip on information about his health, disputing reports of his severe condition. Zuma's daughter, Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, posted videos on her X account showing him exercising with dumbbells, countering allegations of grave illness.

The MK Party's national spokesperson, Sifiso Mahlangu, and Jacob Zuma Foundation spokesperson, Mzwanele Manyi, have shared limited updates via social media. Mahlangu emphasized that Zuma travels with a military ambulance, as part of his status as a former Head of State. He dismissed the news as false and intended to distract voters, fearing it would impact the upcoming Local Government Elections in November 2026.

Manyi also dismissed reports of Zuma's discharge, stating that he was recovering well in the hospital. He echoed Mahlangu's sentiments, asserting that Zuma deserved the same dignity, privacy, and consideration as any individual facing a health issue.