Least of JZ’s troubles

THE booing of President Jacob Zuma at the delivery of the January 8 statement by newly elected ANC president Cyril Ramaphosa in East London heralded the absolute nadir of Zuma’s embattled presidency, and it will be recorded as such in our history books.

The Teflon-clad superman, Zuma, has thus far during his presidency evaded votes of no confidence in the National Assembly and prosecution for:

Having a corrupt relationship with Schabir Shaik.

Alleged rape of Kwezi – subsequently exonerated.

Corruption charges – 783 of them.

Inappropriate “security” upgrades at Nkandla, as revealed in former public protector Thuli Madonsela’s report.

Alleged involvement in state capture through his association with the Gupta family.

Many assert that Thabo Mbeki was recalled for far less serious blunders than Zuma’s “gross transgressions”, which have brought incalculable disrepute and damage to the 106-yearold ANC and the proud legacy of its former leaders.

Zuma’s presidency has been riddled with corruption, nepotism and cronyism, ultimately reducing the South African economy to junk status. It will be most interesting to see how the ANC deals with Zuma’s inevitable exit, and whether superhero Zuma’s bullet-proof cape can save him from the judiciary.

Only time can tell. Cllr Mark RH Kleinschmidt Kenwyn