A woman president in SA? Sadly the top contender offers more of the same
Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma is an ambiguous, ambitious figure, an operator and bureaucrat — and not what either SA or a reinvigorated ANC needs, writes Susan Booysen
For SA’s beleaguered governing ANC, the rise of a high-calibre woman leader should signal a turning of the pages, and lead to rejuvenation of the body politic. But sadly, for every accolade about the woman touted to be the next party president after Jacob Zuma ends his second term, there are questions, queries and lots of red flags. Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma is an ambiguous, ambitious figure, an operator and bureaucrat. She reads the currents, positions herself and collects the benefits. Hagiographies and more neutral observation alike show that she is a leader in her own right. This is far more than just a Zuma hoping to replace a Zuma. The 68-year-old comes with exile-struggle and transition credentials, extensive experience at top government level in health, foreign affairs and home affairs, and Africa-continental engagements that helped elevate her to head the African Union. She has skirted gaining ANC leadership positions, but her ascent comes through public deployment. Granted, c...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.