Former South Africa President Jacob Zuma 'Won't Vote for ANC'
Introduction
Former South African President Jacob Zuma, in a surprising turn of events, has declared that he will not support the African National Congress (ANC) in the upcoming elections.
Instead, he announced the formation of a new political party named uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK), echoing the historical armed wing of the ANC.
A Betrayal of the ANC
Zuma, who led the country from 2009 to 2018, expressed that campaigning for the current ANC led by President Cyril Ramaphosa would be a betrayal. He believes the ANC has deviated from its historic roots, claiming it's no longer the liberation movement he once admired.
The Birth of uMkhonto we Sizwe
With a bold declaration, Zuma proclaimed the start of a "new people's war," emphasizing a shift from bullets to ballots. The paramilitary MK, previously disbanded in 1993, is resurrected as a political entity to challenge the ANC.
Critique of the Current ANC
Zuma, citing health reasons, criticized the ANC's current state, accusing leaders of behaving in an "un-ANC manner." He expressed his intention to "rescue" the organization, forecasting its expected loss in the upcoming elections and alleging a deliberate plot to undermine the ANC.
Allegations Against President Ramaphosa
The former president did not mince words in his critique of President Ramaphosa, portraying him as a "proxy of white monopoly capital." Zuma accused the ANC under Ramaphosa of waging war against black professionals and intellectuals.
A Personal Pledge
Despite distancing himself from the ANC's current leadership, Zuma declared that he would remain a member until his death. However, he refused to campaign for the ANC under Ramaphosa, fearing it would lead to a government by what he referred to as "sell-outs and apartheid collaborators."
The MK Party's Ascent
In a dramatic twist, Zuma pledged his support to the newly formed MK party, emphasizing that "no force can defeat the people's thirst for freedom." This move signifies a significant shift in South African politics, setting the stage for a competitive election landscape.
Controversial Legacy
Jacob Zuma's political journey has been marred by controversy, including allegations of corruption during his presidency. His recent imprisonment in 2021 for contempt of court sparked protests and riots, shedding light on the deep-rooted challenges facing South Africa.
Conclusion
As South Africa approaches a crucial election, the emergence of uMkhonto we Sizwe as a political force adds complexity to the political landscape. Zuma's departure from ANC loyalty underscores the evolving dynamics within the country's political sphere. The upcoming elections are poised to be a defining moment, marking a departure from the ANC's longstanding dominance since 1994.
