The writing has been on the wall for some time now, but some failed to see it. By squashing scandal after scandal throughout his political career, South African President Jacob Zuma has now become untouchable for those who are baying for his blood.
The president’s recent brush with controversy came when he was absolved of blame for squandering taxpayers’ money for presiding over a $17.7 million (Dh65.1 million) upgrade of his private home. Allegations of taking bribes from arms dealers, acquittal in rape charges, fathering a child out of wedlock with a friend’s daughter — all have now been reduced to sideshows. The core reason for Zuma’s unlimited immunity is simple: He is the leader of the African National Congress (ANC) and the party has a vice-like grip on South Africa. Winning 60 per cent of the votes in every election, since the first multiracial vote in 1994, has given ANC a strong powerbase and its flag-bearers do not want to lose this status, as well as the gratuitous favours that they receive under Zuma’s patronage.
Zuma’s power is self-serving. Any political system will grow weak over time in the absence of an opposition because its leaders become indifferent to the requirements of the common people. The opposition, especially the Democratic Alliance, has been muzzled not just by action but also by mandate. Fissures, however, are emerging and the slump in the economy is the most telling example of Zuma’s apathy. The rand has weakened against the dollar, growth is slow and there are sporadic power shortages affecting millions. The good news is this is Zuma’s final term in office. But the bad news is that the political system cannot be reformed in a hurry under the ANC’s watch.
