Earlier this week former president Jacob Zuma sent a press release via his daughter Dudu Sambudla-Zuma’s Twitter account in what was an indication that he would be ready to stand for the ANC chairpersonship while he reiterated his support for his ex-wife Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma to become party president. But what is behind Zuma’s bid to re-enter the active political arena?
The Second Coming — what’s behind Jacob Zuma’s return to ANC elective lists?
Ferial Haffajee writes that Zuma’s name has been popping up across ANC branches that seek to nominate him to a top-six position. Some have even suggested Zuma be party president again but Haffajee argues that Zuma’s prospects of claiming a top six spot are slim. There is the “step aside” rule, which states no one that is criminally charged can be elected to leadership positions. While his home province of KwaZulu-Natal isn’t keen to back the former top main either. (Daily Maverick)
‘Lion of Nkandla’ becomes more muted as time passes
The Citizen writes in its editorial that despite Zuma claiming terminal illness at the time he was released from prison on medical parole last year he has staged a miraculous recovery to actively contest ANC positions. But the long shadow he cast over South African politics is beginning to be engulfed by the sunlight after KZN decided not to do his bidding as it has in the past by choosing to back former health minister Zweli Mkhize instead of Zuma’s preferred candidate for president, his ex-wife Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma. (The Citizen, for subscribers)
Here’s what else we’re reading today:
JUSTICE MALALA: Cyril Ramaphosa and the enemy within – Financial Mail (for subscribers)
GARETH VAN ONSELEN: Mmusi Maimane: the ultimate politician – Business Day (for subscribers)
JABULANI SIKHAKHANE: Know thyself, Mr President, and how to hire the right aide – Business Day (for subscribers)
New Eskom board won’t solve power crisis – The Citizen (for subscribers)
South Africa can learn many lessons from Rwanda and its youthful leadership – Daily Maverick
