Recently, Jacob Zuma has been in the news due to his suspension from the African National Congress (ANC) for supporting the rival uMkhonto weSizwe Party ahead of national elections. This decision follows a series of controversies surrounding Zuma, including a 2021 contempt of court conviction that rendered him ineligible to run for parliament. His political maneuvers and the ANC's declining electoral support, attributed to economic challenges and governance issues, have further fueled discussions about his influence on South African politics.
Jacob Gedleyihlekisa Zuma, born on April 12, 1942, is a prominent South African politician who served as the fourth democratically elected President of South Africa from 2009 until his resignation in February 2018. A member of the ANC, Zuma's political career began in the anti-apartheid movement, where he was a key figure in the armed wing, uMkhonto weSizwe. His presidency was marked by significant economic challenges, allegations of corruption, and a controversial leadership style, which ultimately led to his ousting amid mounting pressure from within the ANC and civil society.