Former president Jacob Zuma is reportedly in good health despite claims that he was hospitalised after suddenly falling ill in KwaZulu-Natal.
The uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party has dismissed concerns about its leader’s condition, saying he underwent a routine medical examination on Tuesday, 6 October 2026.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the party assured supporters that Zuma remained well and would continue campaigning ahead of the November local government elections.
Hospital Reports Raise Concerns
Questions about Zuma’s health emerged after The Witness reported that the 84-year-old former president had been admitted to a hospital in Pietermaritzburg.
According to the publication, Zuma had attended an event in Msinga before reportedly becoming unwell.
An eyewitness reportedly saw him arriving at the hospital in an ambulance.
However, the circumstances surrounding his reported admission were not independently confirmed.
The reports prompted questions about whether his health would affect his political commitments.
MK Party Clarifies Zuma’s Condition
Responding to the reports, the MK Party said Zuma had attended one of his regular medical examinations.
The party explained that the former president undergoes a comprehensive health assessment twice a year.
In its official statement, the party said Zuma was “healthy and in good spirits” and confirmed that his scheduled political activities would proceed.
MK Party spokesperson Sifiso Mahlangu also told Business Day that Zuma had returned to his Nkandla home.
Mahlangu maintained that the former president was not seriously unwell and described the hospital visit as part of his regular medical care.
The party did not disclose additional details about the examination or address every claim surrounding his reported admission.
Election Campaign to Continue
The health reports surfaced as the MK Party prepares for South Africa’s local government elections scheduled for 4 November 2026.
Zuma remains the party’s president and is expected to participate in its campaign activities.
According to Eyewitness News, the party has confirmed that its election programme will continue without changes following the medical examination.
The MK Party’s response sought to reassure supporters amid speculation about the former president’s health.
While reports about his hospital visit attracted attention, the party maintains that Zuma remains fit to continue his political responsibilities.