Former South African President Jacob Zuma made a powerful appearance in Soweto as he campaigned for votes ahead of the upcoming general election on May 29. The historic township was buzzing with activity as Zulu warriors, singers, and supporters gathered at Orlando Stadium to rally behind Zuma and his new party, uMkhonto weSizwe (Spear of the Nation).
Zulu warriors marched with their traditional spears and shields, while men in camouflage sang revolutionary songs. The crowd was entertained by famous South African artists, including rapper Big Zulu and the legendary disco king, Papa Penny. Papa Penny’s presence was particularly significant, as it symbolized a break from the perception that Zuma’s support is confined to his Zulu ethnic group.
The highlight of the rally was the 82-year-old Zuma himself. As he entered the stadium, chants of “Zuma, Zuma” filled the air. His daughter, Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, who plays a key role in the party, greeted him with a hug before he took his place on stage. Duduzile recently described their dynamic, saying, “My father is obviously the head, and I’m the neck.”
Zuma’s choice to hold the rally in Soweto was strategic, given its deep political significance and status as an ANC stronghold in Gauteng. Soweto was a center of resistance against apartheid, and now, decades later, the ANC faces a challenge from Zuma’s breakaway party and other opposition groups.
Current ANC leader and President Cyril Ramaphosa has been campaigning vigorously, particularly in KwaZulu-Natal, Zuma’s home province. Addressing supporters in Mandeni, Ramaphosa emphasized job creation and warned against underestimating the ANC. “These small parties…will know us on May 29,” he stated.
Ramaphosa ousted Zuma as president in 2018, and the two have been political adversaries since. The ANC now faces the potential loss of its majority, with the Social Research Foundation noting a recent surge in support for the ruling party as elections approach.
The legal status of Zuma’s candidacy remains uncertain, with South Africa’s highest court yet to rule on his eligibility due to a past prison sentence. Despite this, MK plans to contest the election with Zuma’s image prominently featured. Senior MK official Visvin Reddy expressed confidence that the court would rule in their favor, but assured that the party would proceed regardless.
At the rally, Zuma delivered a spirited speech in Zulu, criticizing colonialism and promising to reclaim land and resources for South Africans. He also vowed to expel undocumented migrants, emphasizing his populist stance.
As election day nears, South Africans are preparing for a pivotal vote. The outcome will reveal whether Zuma’s new party can significantly disrupt the political landscape or if the ANC will maintain its grip on power.