Zuma doesn’t care, says Madonsela

Former public protector Thuli Madonsela has fiercely accused President Jacob Zuma of being “either oblivious or unconcerned” about the various issues plaguing the country – including vehement allegations of state capture.

Pleading for swift action, Madonsela exclusively told The Citizen that while “the country is in bad shape”, Zuma also seemed “unaware” that such a level of uncertainty and discontent was a threat to national peace, stability and ultimately, democracy.

She further urged Zuma to institute a commission of inquiry as stipulated in her State of Capture report, released as she ended her term last year.

“Many top leaders in government, political parties and civil society believe this to be so and are working hard to get South Africa on track in the pursuit of the South Africa of our dreams.

“Based on his public utterances, President Zuma appears to be either oblivious or unconcerned about the enormous social, economic, political, governance and ethical challenges confronting this great nation at the moment.”

If state capture allegations and the evidence supporting it were not acted on fast, Madonsela pointed out, “it may be too late to arrest the rot, should such rot indeed be there”. – Citizen reporter