CAROL PATON: The opposition had its day — but so did the ANC
South Africans and the Constitution also won big on Tuesday
It was a narrow escape for Jacob Zuma, with only 11 votes separating the ayes and nays. Afterwards, both sides said they had won. For the DA, to pull about 28 votes off the ANC — 37 if abstentions are counted — was a huge victory. Not only that, but it was the opposition’s day: they put people on the streets; they put up a great fight in the house; they created the show; and they nearly won. For the ANC, to hold 198 MPs to the party line in an environment in which it is deeply divided and keenly aware of the damage Zuma is doing to its image — and in the face of enormous public pressure — was also a victory. Apart from that, to have lost the vote would have been devastating: while knee-deep in chaos it would have had the pressure of putting a new government together. It was a consequence that many — including some who want Zuma gone — found too terrifying to contemplate. It is clear that the appetite in the ANC to remove Zuma is growing. But it wants him removed on its own terms and...
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.