Thabo Mbeki Foundation denies rumours former president has died

The Thabo Mbeki Foundation has denied rumours the former president has died, confirming he is in “good health”.

Rumours of Mbeki’s death swirled on social media and several blogs online this week, leading to the foundation stepping in to clear the air.

“The Thabo Mbeki Foundation is aware of recent, unfounded reports circulating on social media regarding the health of the Patron of the Thabo Mbeki Foundation, President Thabo Mbeki.

“We categorically deny these reports and wish to assure the public that president Mbeki is in good health.”

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It urged caution when reading reports on social media, “particularly during a time when misinformation can spread rapidly”, and said updates on Mbeki would be delivered via official channels.

Previous death rumours

The foundation issued a similar reassurance in 2016 after a “dodgy” website claimed Mbeki had died.

“The Thabo Mbeki Foundation continues to be inundated with queries regarding former President Thabo Mbeki’s health following a hoax report about his passing by a dubious website earlier this week.

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“It is regrettable that some media outlets including public broadcasters on the continent, have reported on the hoax as fact without reference to the foundation or accredited South African Embassies and High Commissions in their countries,” it said at the time.

The rumour resurfaced in 2021 amid the Covid-19 pandemic, with a WhatsApp message announcing the “breaking news” shared widely.

Mbeki to campaign for ANC ahead of elections?

Mbeki will likely have a busy year ahead of this year’s general elections. He reportedly said he would not campaign for the ANC, but spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu told The Citizen he would be expected to out of loyalty.

“The party does not need to ask members and leaders [to campaign], they know that they have an obligation. It’s part of their responsibilities as members of the party,” Bhengu said.