Ntshavheni Warns Against Speculation Over Jacob Zuma’s Health

Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni has called for restraint amid growing speculation about former president Jacob Zuma’s health. Zuma, 84, has been receiving treatment at Netcare St Anne’s Hospital in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, with the MK Party describing his visit as a routine check-up. Ntshavheni said only his doctors could disclose details about his condition with his consent.

Ntshavheni Calls For Privacy Over Jacob Zuma’s Health

Speaking during an inter-ministerial committee briefing on migration on Sunday, Ntshavheni said Zuma’s public standing did not give people the right to speculate about his medical condition. She stressed that information about his health should come from his medical team and only with his permission.

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“It’s only his medical doctors who can pronounce on his health status and health conditions, with his consent,” Ntshavheni said.

“The fact that a person holds a particular position in society does not entitle us to violate his privacy,” she added.

MK Party Rejects Speculation About Jacob Zuma’s Condition

The MK Party in KwaZulu-Natal has also criticised speculation surrounding Zuma’s health, warning that unverified reports could cause public anxiety and political uncertainty. The party reiterated that its national office had described Zuma as being “in good spirits”. It urged supporters to remain calm and obtain updates through official party communication.

“We urge the public to rely on official party communication and not to circulate unverified claims or sensational headlines.”

The party called on its members and supporters to “remain calm, disciplined and vigilant”, adding that Zuma’s health should not become a source of sensationalism or unnecessary public anxiety.

Jacob Zuma’s Campaign Programme Expected To Continue

Despite the speculation, MK Party spokesperson Sifiso Mahlangu said on Thursday that Zuma’s campaign programme would continue as planned. The party has maintained that his hospital visit was for a routine check-up. President Cyril Ramaphosa has also acknowledged that Zuma was unwell and wished him a speedy recovery.