Former President Jacob Zuma Remains in Hospital, Foundation Says He Is Recovering Well
Pietermaritzburg, South Africa – October 14, 2026: Former South African President Jacob Zuma, 84, continues to receive medical treatment at Netcare St Anne’s Hospital in Pietermaritzburg, according to the Jacob G. Zuma Foundation, which has rejected reports that he has been discharged.
Zuma, who leads the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party, was admitted to the private hospital around October 6. Initial accounts described the admission as following a routine medical check-up, though some reports indicated he had fallen ill and was transported by ambulance. The foundation has consistently stated that he is recovering well and remains in high spirits.
Foundation spokesperson Mzwanele Manyi said on recent updates that Zuma is “in very high spirits, he’s good, he’s fine, he’s joking,” and has shown continued interest in political activities. Manyi added that the former president has even expressed looking forward to returning to the stage to sing his trademark struggle song, Umshini Wami. The foundation has urged the media and public to respect Zuma’s privacy during his hospital stay and has dismissed claims that he is in a critical condition.
Conflicting reports have circulated in recent days. Broadcaster eNCA reported that Zuma was discharged on the night of October 12 and advised to remain in the Pietermaritzburg area overnight pending further assessment. The foundation promptly denied this, stating that reports of his discharge “are not true.”
President Cyril Ramaphosa earlier acknowledged that Zuma “has not been well” and is under treatment by doctors, noting that the military surgeon general had been briefed on his condition. Sources close to Zuma have attributed the hospitalisation in part to diabetes and exhaustion from overwork.
Zuma’s health has drawn attention ahead of South Africa’s local government elections on November 4. The MK Party cancelled a planned final rally, citing both his hospitalisation and issues with its candidate lists. Party officials have previously insisted he remains fit to lead and campaign.
The precise nature of Zuma’s medical condition has not been publicly detailed by his medical team or the foundation. Updates continue to be closely monitored as the election campaign intensifies.
About The Author
SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER
