Zuma and Trump are one and the same

The US and SA face the same problems with their leaders , writes Dawie Jacobs.

After a tumultuous year, both Jacob Zuma and Donald Trump are still facing possible impeachment; both are still under a cloud of suspicion regarding dubious deals, also with Russia; and in both cases their cronies are rallying behind them for fear of losing their perks and perhaps being exposed themselves.

Trump has the edge being a reality star; having a stronger econ- omy and more billionaire cronies around him; being more adept in tweeting fake news; more money to buy silence about his indiscretions with women; and having bigger buttons on his desk.

But the bottom line is that what is at stake in both cases are truth, honesty, inclusivity and own narrow interest versus the common good.

But perhaps the most disconcerting are the blatant attacks on, and undermining of, the credibility of vital institutions that have always been the watchdogs over the well-being of our respective democracies, and that have kept wayward leaders in check.

Further afield, dictators in other countries are emboldened by attacks on the media, and journalists have been jailed for spreading “fake news”.

It is a roller-coaster ride for both nations under the tribal-style leadership of Trump and Zuma.

Opposition parties, civil society, the media and the justice systems in both countries have been mobilised against these divisive leaders and one could just hope for positive outcomes.