War is declared between former South African President Jacob Zuma and his party, the African National Congress (ANC). During a press conference, Jacob Zuma attacked the ruling party and its president Cyril Ramaphosa, accusing them of being in the hands of “white capitalism” and saying he does not recognize his political family. He announces that he will neither stand for the ANC nor vote for the party in next year's general election.
Published on: December 16, 2023 – 10:44 p.m
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With our correspondent in Johannesburg, Roman song
Jacob Zuma never digested the fact that he was forced out of the presidency in 2018 due to corruption allegations. As a result, the ANC will face a new crisis as the country celebrates the Day of Reconciliation.
Jacob Zuma used this day to settle scores with his political family and the head of state. “Ramaphosa’s ANC is the relay of white capitalism,” “Ramaphosa’s ANC has declared war on black professionals and intellectuals,” or even “a campaign for Ramaphosa’s ANC would be treason,” he declared.
Jacob Zuma is therefore calling for the election of a new party, uMkhonto weSizwe (MK), which bears the name of the former armed wing of the ANC. Dissatisfied, the ruling party has already announced that it will go to court to protect the name that belongs to it.
This dissidence could deprive the presidential party of valuable votes, putting it at risk of losing a majority in the 2024 elections, which would be a first.
In his desire for revenge against President Ramaphosa, Jacob Zuma is ready to weaken his own party, which he does not want to leave. He says he is leading a rescue mission for the ANC that looks more like a destabilization campaign.