Zuma’s Medical Care Prompts Questions About Campaign Role

Former South African President Jacob Zuma’s medical care has prompted conflicting public accounts about his condition, leaving uncertainty over whether he will take part in upcoming campaign events for the uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MK Party). President Cyril Ramaphosa said Friday that Zuma had been unwell and was receiving medical treatment. The party says he attended a routine checkup, is healthy and remains in good spirits. Ramaphosa told reporters that the military surgeon general had been briefed about Zuma’s condition. He wished Zuma a quick recovery but did not provide further details about the treatment. The party has not publicly explained the reports that an ambulance was used. Local media reports said Zuma was taken by ambulance to a medical facility in Pietermaritzburg, but accounts differed over when and where he became ill or was admitted. The supplied reports do not establish the reason for the visit or confirm the medical details. Zuma’s age was also reported inconsistently, as 84 or 85. MK Party spokesperson Sifiso Mahlangu said Zuma had undergone a routine medical checkup and was healthy.