Questions over former South African president Jacob Zuma’s health intensified on Monday despite assurances from those close to him that he was recovering well after being admitted to hospital last week.
Zuma, 84, remains at Netcare St Anne’s Hospital in Pietermaritzburg where the Presidency says he was admitted for a routine medical check-up conducted twice a year and is under the care of the surgeon-general.
The former president’s hospitalisation has fuelled speculation about his condition and prompted uncertainty over his participation in upcoming political and public engagements.
Sources close to Zuma said the former president, who is diabetic, was admitted to “undergo some checks and get some rest” largely due to exhaustion.
He was expected to be discharged on Monday, according to sources quoted by local media.
“He needed that rest. He was exhausted, but he’s fine and should be discharged today.”
The remarks follow several days of speculation on social media and in some media reports about Zuma’s health, including claims that his condition was deteriorating.
Those claims have been strongly rejected by people close to the former president.
The speculation also prompted Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni to appeal for Zuma’s privacy to be respected while he receives medical care.
The uncertainty surrounding Zuma’s health comes at a crucial time for his uMkhonto weSizwe Party ahead of local government elections. His scheduled engagements include the party’s manifesto launch in Mbombela on Sunday.
JN/APA