Former South African President Jacob Zuma made headlines over the weekend as he launched his newly formed uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) party’s manifesto at a rally in Johannesburg. Addressing thousands of supporters, Zuma expressed his concerns about the high levels of poverty among Black South Africans and promised to create jobs and tackle crime in the country.
During his speech, Zuma outlined his party’s plans to build factories to provide employment opportunities for many South Africans and offer free education to the country’s youth. Additionally, he pledged to amend the Constitution to restore more powers to traditional leaders, arguing that their role in society has been diminished by the judiciary.
Zuma’s party has quickly gained traction in South Africa’s political landscape since its launch in December last year. However, the former president is currently embroiled in a legal battle with the Independent Electoral Commission after being barred from standing in the upcoming elections due to his criminal record.
Despite his legal challenges, Zuma remains determined to make a political comeback after being forced to resign as president in 2018 amidst corruption allegations. He emphasized the need for fewer political parties in South Africa, attributing the country’s high crime rates to poverty among Black people.
With his supporters rallying behind him, Zuma’s uMkhonto weSizwe party is poised to shake up the upcoming elections and potentially reshape the country’s political landscape.