Former president Thabo Mbeki. Picture: Boxer Ngwenya Independent Newspapers
The Thabo Mbeki Foundation has slammed the death hoax against former president Thabo Mbeki, citing the reports as unfounded.
This is not the first time that Mbeki has fallen victim to death claims: in 2021, the foundation slammed the false reports immediately.
The recent statement reads: “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.
“We urge caution and responsible engagement with online information, particularly during a time when misinformation can spread rapidly.
“We appreciate your concern and ask that you rely on official channels for accurate information about President Mbeki’s well-being and activities.
“Thank you for your continued support and understanding.“
In June 2021, a WhatsApp message claiming to be from a News24 journalist erroneously stated that Mbeki had died of Covid-19 during the pandemic.
Dismissing it as fake news, News24 shared the message, which read: “Breaking news: ex-president Thabo Mbeki has just passed away from the Covid-19 virus after battling it for the past 4 days. The ex-president passed away in his Killarney residence, where he was being treated, says his wife, Zanele Dlamini Mbeki.“
The media company further rubbished all claims that the person behind the reports worked for them.
In another death hoax case, some X users claimed that Home Affairs Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi had been poisoned and was admitted to hospital.
The Star
anita.nkonki@inl.co.za
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