MK Party responds to reports about Jacob Zuma’s hospital admission

Reports that Jacob Zuma was admitted to a Pietermaritzburg hospital have been followed by a reassurance from the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party that its president is healthy and in good spirits, Joburg ETC reports.

eNCA reported on 7 October that Zuma had been admitted after a routine medical check-up on 6 October. The report said he was at a Pietermaritzburg hospital.

The MK Party later issued a media statement dated 7 October, saying Zuma had attended a routine medical check-up the previous day. The party said the full check-up is carried out twice a year and confirmed that he was healthy and in good spirits. It added that his campaign programme would continue accordingly.

[MEDIA STATEMENT]:

STATEMENT ON THE HEALTH STATUS OF H.E PRESIDENT JACOB GEDLEYIHLEKISA ZUMA https://t.co/YIBVJ5MOJN

uMkhonto WeSizwe Party (Official) (@MkhontoweSizwex) October 7, 2026

The differing descriptions leave the nature of Zuma’s hospital visit unclear. The party statement does not provide details about any treatment or medical condition, while the reported admission has fuelled public interest in the former president’s health.

Zuma remains politically active as MK Party president, with the party saying his campaign schedule will proceed.

The party has not shared further medical details or explained the reported hospital admission so far. For now, the clearest official update is the MK Party’s assurance that Zuma is well.