Zuma: From struggle against apartheid to political controversy and notable regional presence | Who is he?

Written by Omnia Hassan

Jacob Zuma, born on April 12, 1942 in Nkandla, KwaZulu-Natal, is one of the most prominent political figures in the history of South Africa. Africa Al-Hadith joined the African National Congress (ANC) early on and participated in the resistance against the apartheid regime, which led to him being imprisoned for ten years on Robben Island alongside anti-apartheid leaders.

Post-democratic phase

After the ban on the party was lifted in 1990, he rose through the leadership ranks until he became Vice President, then the fourth President of post-democracy South Africa, serving from 2009 to 2018.

Years in power: between achievements and accusations

Zuma’s presidency was associated with complex economic and social issues, but it was most famous for political controversy and accusations of corruption, especially in what became known as arms deals and “state capture” cases.

Popular and partisan pressure on him increased over the years, until he was forced to resign in February 2018 before the end of his term. Later, he faced multiple legal proceedings, the most prominent of which was a prison sentence for contempt of court after he refused to appear before a committee investigating corruption. This sparked widespread protests and riots in several regions, and revealed the depth of the polarization surrounding his personality within South Africa.

A notable appearance at the birthday celebration of the King of Eswatini

Zuma’s name has returned to the forefront regionally with his appearance at the birthday celebration of King Mswati III in Eswatini, in the presence of political figures from South Africa.

The attendance was not merely a matter of protocol, as it strengthened family ties between the two sides following his daughter Nomsebo's association with the royal palace, in the context of prominent local traditions such as the Umhlanga Reed Dance.

This family dimension gave the appearance a symbolic character that transcends politics into cultural and social diplomacy.

Political implications that transcend borders

Zuma’s presence at a traditional royal event reflects the extent of his presence and influence beyond his country’s borders. Despite leaving power and his divisive history, his personality is still able to attract attention in the regional space, whether through his historical relationships within the SADC or through new social ties.

Between the legacy of the struggle against apartheid and the controversies of corruption, Jacob Zuma remains a complex model of a leader shaped by major historical moments, and his presence continues to spark debate both within and outside South Africa.