In KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, Jacob Gedleyihlekisa Zuma is a figure who evokes mixed feelings. Some view the former president as a hero who helped uplift millions of impoverished South Africans, while others see him as corrupt and unfit for leadership. Despite his involvement in major corruption scandals post-apartheid, the 82-year-old Zuma continues to be a prominent figure in politics. Leading up to the general elections on May 29, Zuma has distanced himself from the African National Congress (ANC) and instead supports the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) party, which aims to challenge the ANC’s dominance. Polls suggest that the ANC may lose its parliamentary majority for the first time since apartheid ended in 1994, potentially leading to coalition governance. The MK party, with Zuma’s backing, is gaining support, particularly in KwaZulu-Natal, raising the possibility of Zuma playing a key role in forming a coalition government. While some analysts believe Zuma has significant influence, others doubt the extent of his support outside the ANC. Despite facing corruption allegations and resigning as president in 2018, Zuma’s allegiance to the MK party in the upcoming elections indicates his desire to remain politically active and potentially influence the country’s future leadership. With the ANC losing ground and the MK gaining traction, the political landscape in South Africa is shifting, with KwaZulu-Natal emerging as a critical battleground in the upcoming elections.
