By Celani Sikhakhane
- MKP presidency head Magasela Mzobe slams false rumours that party leader Jacob Zuma was hospitalised this week.
- Former president appears healthy in court supporting ally Bonginkosi Khanyile, but refuses to answer journalists’ questions about himself.
The head of the uMkhonto weSizwe Party presidency has slammed rumours that party leader Jacob Zuma was rushed to hospital this week.
Magasela Mzobe rubbished claims circulating on WhatsApp groups and social media on Wednesday that the former president was sick and admitted to hospital.
Speaking to Scrolla.Africa at Durban Magistrate’s Court on Friday, Mzobe angrily dismissed the health scare stories.
“Here he is, you can see him in front of you, he is well and alive. He has never been to hospital and he has never been sick. Look at him, don’t even ask, he is here in front of you,” said Mzobe.
Zuma appeared in court looking healthy and strong, putting an end to the rumours about his condition.
The 83-year-old former president was there to support his ally, Bonginkosi “Education” Khanyile, who is on trial for his role in the deadly July 2021 unrest.
But Zuma refused to answer any questions from journalists, saying his focus was only on Khanyile’s case.
“No, I won’t answer you any questions about me. Today I am here for this trial, not for anything,” said Zuma.
He entered the courtroom alongside Khanyile, the former Fees Must Fall activist who faces charges related to the violent riots that erupted after Zuma’s arrest in 2021.
The court was packed with MKP members who came to show their support for Khanyile.
After the magistrate postponed the case to 29 September, Khanyile turned to thank his supporters in the gallery.
He then specifically thanked Zuma for his loyalty and support.
“Thank you, President Zuma, for being truthful to me. I am really grateful for your support,” said Khanyile.
Khanyile told supporters that Zuma wouldn’t be able to address them because he was in a hurry to play golf.
The trial started on 7 July, and Friday marked the end of the first session before the September postponement.
On Friday, there was a cross-examination of Brigadier Msizi Nyuswa from the Organised Crime Unit.
The state also played video footage showing Khanyile allegedly inciting violence during the time of Zuma’s arrest.
Pictured above: Former President Jacob Zuma refused to entertain rumours of being sick. He was in court on Friday to support 2021 July unrest accused Bonginkosi Education Khanyile at the Durban Magistrate Court.
Image source: Celani Sikhakhane
