Former South African President Jacob Zuma remains under medical care at a private hospital in Pietermaritzburg following his admission earlier this week, according to multiple reports.
Zuma, 84, was taken by ambulance to the facility widely identified as Netcare St Anne’s around 6–7 October after appearing unwell following a public appearance on the campaign trail in Msinga, KwaZulu-Natal.
The uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party and the Jacob Zuma Foundation initially described the hospital visit as a routine medical check-up, which the former president undergoes twice a year. Party spokesperson Sifiso Mahlangu said Zuma was “healthy and in good spirits,” “fit as a fiddle,” and “healthy as a horse,” adding that his campaign programme would continue. Some early statements claimed he had already been discharged and returned home to Nkandla.
Independent reporting has presented a different picture. The Witness cited an eyewitness who saw Zuma arrive by stretcher wearing an oxygen mask and in a serious condition. Healthcare workers at the hospital reportedly confirmed he had been admitted to the intensive care unit, while presidential protection vehicles were observed in the hospital’s underground parking. Sources indicated that arrangements were being considered for a possible transfer to a military hospital in Pretoria.
Zuma’s brother, Khanya, confirmed the former president was ill and hospitalised. He said Zuma had told him earlier in the week that he was not feeling well. Sources close to the family and Zuma’s entourage also indicated he was in ICU, with government doctors later taking over his care.
On Friday, President Cyril Ramaphosa publicly confirmed that Zuma “has not been well and he has now been put under treatment by doctors.” Ramaphosa said the military surgeon-general had been briefed on the matter and wished his predecessor a speedy recovery.
No official details have been released about the nature of Zuma’s illness or the treatment he is receiving. The former president has experienced health-related hospitalisations and medical travel in previous years, including a trip to Russia in 2023 for treatment of an undisclosed condition.
The situation remains fluid as media attention continues, given Zuma’s prominent role as MK Party leader ahead of the upcoming local government elections.
Source : Africanews
