PRESIDENT Jacob Zuma, who said he could not stop the prosecution of Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan because his interference would drive the country “closer to [becoming] a banana republic”, has an “incredible ability to ignore the public mood”.This is the conclusion of political analyst Ralph Mathekga, speaking after Zuma‘s question-and-answer session in the National Council of Provinces yesterday.Zuma‘s biggest problem was his inability to gauge the “public mood” in light of the latest developments and scandals, Mathekga said, adding that his replies were framed as if nothing untoward had occurred in the past few weeks.“He dismissed people asking questions as people with an agenda. For him, it doesn‘t seem as if the conditions have changed.”Five questions dominated the session. Here‘s how Zuma answered them:On the fraud charges against Gordhan:“I don‘t think we should be discussing details of that matter when it is in court. I must also say the matter was never discussed with [NP...
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.