PRESIDENT Robert Mugabe returned home Saturday after spending a week in Singapore where he had gone for what officials described as routine medical check-ups.

According to state radio, a fit looking Mugabe was met at Harare International Airport by Vice President Joice Mujuru, Defence Minister, Emmerson Mnangagwa, State Security Minister, Sydney Sekeramayi, service chiefs and other senior government officials.

Mugabe, who turned 88 this year, left Harare for Singapore on Monday, sparking renewed speculation over his health although officials insisted he had no major health concerns

"The president is going on a private visit for a routine medical checkup - not because he is sick or anything like that, but one consistent with his strong belief in getting regular medical examinations in order to stay healthy," a senior official, who declined to be identified, told Reuters.

Asked why the president was going abroad if it was a routine issue, the official said: "I am not going to be dragged into that kind of malicious debate."

The Zanu PF leader had cataract surgery in the Asian country January 2011. He has travelled back eight times last year alone but aides angrily denied reports in April that he was undergoing intensive treatment for cancer.

A June 2008 U.S. diplomatic cable released by WikiLeaks last year said Mugabe had prostate cancer that had spread to other organs. His doctor urged him to step down in 2008, according to the cable.