For a time, it seemed tantalisingly possible that perhaps, just perhaps, President Jacob Zuma might be forced to stand down as president by his own national executive committee (NEC). But in the end, after four days of wrangling, the meeting ended a damp squib. The Zuma faction of the ANC won the battle, or at least beat off the attempt to unseat Zuma. Yet, although nothing concrete has changed, in a more philosophical sense, everything has. Only six months ago, the NEC met and nothing like this was even remotely suggested. It seemed at that point that although Zuma had detractors in the governing party’s most senior structure, they were in a tiny minority. Yet in a very short time, it seems patience with the president is waning — and waning fast. For the first time, not just rank-and-file members, but several Cabinet ministers who sit in the heart of the executive stood up and openly challenged the president of the country. When all is said and done, however, the ultimate result is...
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.