Former South African president and uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party leader Jacob Zuma’s health has become a major talking point, following reports that he remains in hospital in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, while his party prepares for the upcoming local government elections.
Zuma was admitted to Netcare St Anne’s Hospital on 6 October 2026. The MK Party initially described his hospital visit as a routine medical check-up, saying he undergoes examinations twice a year. However, his extended hospital stay has raised concerns among supporters and intensified public interest in his condition. The exact nature of his illness has not been officially disclosed.
The Jacob Zuma Foundation has rejected reports claiming that the former president had been discharged, urging the public and media to respect his privacy and dignity. Foundation spokesperson Mzwanele Manyi has also criticised what he described as excessive media enquiries into Zuma’s condition. Meanwhile, government representatives have emphasised that medical information should come from the appropriate sources, with respect for patient confidentiality.
The situation has also affected the MK Party’s election preparations. The party has cancelled its planned Siyathatha rally and manifesto launch, which was scheduled for 18 October in Mpumalanga. According to the party, resources will instead be directed towards community engagement and campaigning at ward level ahead of the local government elections scheduled for 4 November.
Zuma remains a central figure in the MK Party, particularly in KwaZulu-Natal, where the party has built substantial political support. His continued absence from public campaigning has therefore attracted attention, with questions emerging about the party’s campaign momentum as election day approaches.
For now, the public awaits further verified updates on Zuma’s condition and possible discharge from hospital. The foundation has called for speculation to be avoided, while the party continues its election preparations during a crucial period in South African politics.
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