Presidency asks the public to stop speculating as Zuma stays in hospital in KwaZulu-Natal
Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni asked the public and media to respect Jacob Zuma's privacy (IOL, The Citizen, SABC News, News24, EWN). She said only his doctors can speak about his health, with his consent. IOL reported that specialist doctors were sent to KwaZulu-Natal. SABC reported that President Cyril Ramaphosa asked the Surgeon General to oversee his care. The MK Party condemned rumours and challenged a report that tied his health to a possible troop deployment (IOL). Business Day described conflicting reports.
Zuma leads the MK Party, which is contesting the 4 November local elections, so his health affects campaigning and the politics of KwaZulu-Natal.
Treat unverified posts about his condition with care; official updates are expected only from his doctors or family.
The Presidency says his medical privacy matters regardless of public office.
Opponents and some commentators argue that the public has a legitimate interest because of his political role.
No diagnosis, discharge date or deployment order has been published. Until one is, rumours are just rumours.
DailyDrop South Africa edition No. 8 · Morning · MON., OCT. 12, 2026