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Will Zuma surprise us all?

by
2007-11-26 12:18

Johannesburg - ANC deputy president Jacob Zuma is "ready" to be the country's president if asked to do so, the Sunday Times quoted him as saying.

"If I am asked I will be ready for the task," he told a function for black businessmen in Sandton, Johannesburg on Friday.

At the meeting Zuma articulated his policy views on a range of issues. He said the country was too soft on crime and that the police were not being paid enough. South Africa needed a ministry of law and order instead of safety and security because "we are not safe".

"We need to put in place more laws that are not liberal and user-friendly for criminals," he reportedly said.

Corruption was a "sickness of society" and the government should not be run through patronage.

"You cannot run a country by using friends around you... I wish in the not-too-distant future we can be in a position to deal with these matters head-on... It is corruption."

The government had politicised HIV/Aids instead of dealing with the pandemic.

"I feel we could have done more," he said.

The ANC would be united "like never" before, irrespective of who became its next leader at the December conference.

Earlier on Friday, Zuma told a meeting in Cape Town's Mitchell's Plain that he would consider bringing back the death penalty if a referendum indicated that this was what South Africans wanted, the Sunday Times reported.

Has Jacob Zuma perhaps been underrated as a potential leader? Will his stances on crime, corruption and HIV/Aids change your mind come voting time, should he run for president? Is this just clever spin on his part and are his "election promises" likely to amount to nothing?

What do you think?

Disclaimer: News24 encourages freedom of speech and the expression of diverse views. The views of users published on News24 are therefore their own and do not necessarily represent the views of News24. News24 Editors reserve the right to edit or delete comments as they see fit.

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Tracey Sandilands 11/26/2007 12:26:28 PM
It's easy for Jacob Zuma to say now what he thinks people want to hear. We've heard first hand his opinions on preventing HIV infections by showering! he may be considered charming because he makes wild promises to the people, but how effective will he really be as a leader? Either he is corrupt (yet to be proven) or he is a bumbling fool who did not know the corrupters were dragging him in. And economists have predicted that SA will lose foreign investment if he gets in. Concerned

The fisherman 11/26/2007 12:26:31 PM
"MAY" bring back the death penalty!! I would need something some concrete than maybe to vote for anyone. Politicians are known for not keeping promises and speaking with forked tongues.

tinykov 11/26/2007 12:26:38 PM
personally i am tired of the mbeki tactics of bizzare policy positions that are taken behind the scenes and no one being allowed to question them. I would rather have a leader like Zuma who is open to discussion. We would not be having the health crisis, education, safety and foreign policy criss that we are facing today. so i think Zuma will surprise us

Juan 11/26/2007 12:27:32 PM
I support Zuma's latest views 100% but time will tell if he will deliver on these 'election promises'. We have seen the anc make all these beautiful promises and not keep them. What happened to 'a better life for all' when the country is crime ridden and a huge part of our population still live in shacks and below the poverty line? ... but lets give him a chance.. no-one could possibly be worse than mbeki!!

TSO 11/26/2007 12:28:21 PM
No, I do not think that JZ will suprise anyone except those who have no understanding of how the ANC operate. Firstly, it is highly unlikely that the ANC will ever again allow an individual to have too much power to the extent that he/she can change party policy alone. The ANC policy on crime is already in place and I am afraid it is not working. I do not know why it is failing. Changing the name to law and order will not change policy nor will it make us safe.

paul 11/26/2007 12:29:34 PM
Politicians do not tell the truth - doesn't matter what country they are from and what colour they are. Words are cheap. Of course he's gong to say these things to businessmen especially in a run up to an election. Only mugs are going to be taken in by this

A DJ 11/26/2007 12:31:27 PM
...bring back the death penalty, reduce crime, etc... until he comes into power and the greed takes over. Maybe I am wrong, maybe he will do all those things. I love being proved wrong, I hope I am proved wrong, please prove me wrong - this country really needs it!! Surely he cannot change the constitution to bring back the death penalty?

niels 11/26/2007 12:32:39 PM
i would rather have Jacob Zuma as my president than Thabo Mbeki.

May 11/26/2007 12:34:23 PM
The vast majority of South Africans have no idea of how parliamentary processes work. Zuma couldn't bring back the death penalty even if he wanted to. You have to change the constitution in order to that, for which you need a 3/4 vote of parliament. And I doubt that's ever going to happen. Besides he just did the usual politician's dance and said nothing really concrete about it - just that the 'people must speak up' - duh! I thought that's what we've been doing?

Krantz 11/26/2007 12:39:36 PM
I will vote for Zuma IF I know that he'll bring back the death penalty. Otherwise I don't really care how he'll run the country because nothing else will change for the better.

European-African 11/26/2007 12:40:25 PM
It is a sad state of affairs, people, when it appears as though our only possible candidates are these two clowns. Where is the white representative? Surely the ANC represents the demographics of the country. No? WHAT? Surely you jest! Oh well... in that case I have decided NOT to attend the ANC conference :)

WDT 11/26/2007 12:40:44 PM
A bit rich coming from HIM....

Michael 11/26/2007 12:41:16 PM
I love how politicians claim opposites. No to corruption when his financial advisor is already in jail for bribing him. Hard on Aids when he knowingly slept with an HIV possitive woman. Hard on crime when the unemployed who are criminals are the biggest fans of his bring me my machine gun song! At least with this politician his actions have already clearly shown his lies.

gareth 11/26/2007 12:41:25 PM
I think it is sad when a country comes to a point where they back a man because they feel he is the lesser of two evils. Jacob Zuma is a corrupt snake with clearly ZERO values. He certainly does not deserve to be president, in fact, he does not deserve to be a free man.

Deon Coetzee 11/26/2007 12:41:45 PM
I think Zuma will be a much better leader than Thabo was, certainly now that in his later years, Thabo has shown his weaknesses as being paranoid and power-hungry. Zuma might not be a rocket scientist, but the mere fact that the true corrupt politicians and leaders, Mbeki, Selebi, Ngakula, are trying to get rid of him makes me want him to be in power. Go Zuma! Bring your machine gun and I'll bring my biltong! BoerVirZuma!

PAT 11/26/2007 12:42:40 PM
Thabo Mbeki's time is up and I am disappointed that the poll on the website is Zuma vs Mbeki. We don't need a Mugabe for SA, Mbeki is not a man of honour, he should step down and give others a chance. We don't need a dictator. Zuma or who ever wins must be given a chance to lead the country and deal with the current problems. Mbeki failed on crime, HIV/AIDS, Housing, etc. He does not need another 5 years to show us his shortfalls. Thank you Mbeki and byebye please step down with dignity.

Stephen 11/26/2007 12:44:38 PM
Who cares what he says, he is a politician and there is absolutely no relevance between what a politician says and does. Jacob Zuma's job is to look after Jacob Zuma to the same extent YOU are trying to look after YOURSELF

J0e 11/26/2007 12:45:10 PM
Jacob Zuma needs to take a good look @ himself in a mirror before commenting on crime and HIV. Does and the rest of SA not remember what he and Shaik did. Shaik has been convicted of corruption and bribing the former deputy president. Surely, mr Zuma was aware of his intentions at that time and accepted the BRIBE. I for one will NEVER vote for zuma. Lets not even mention his shower/aids comment, that shows where his intelligence lies.Besides all his talk is just for SHOW and to gather SUPPORT! Dn

Samuel 11/26/2007 12:45:55 PM
I do not think it is a well calculated move first of all to make himself ready for the presidency whilest there are still unanswered questions related the case the NPA might have against him, this may put us in jeorpardy as a country.Certainly Pres.Thabo Mbeki(Remember they worked together) give us an indication that he doesn't trust Zuma as credible as a candidate for the presidency. On Mbeki, he shouldn't be running for presidency because he knows that this time is up(What is he protecting?)

MB 11/26/2007 12:46:25 PM
Has this country gone totally crazy? The next president of this country has proven over and over that he CANNOT be trusted, has no sense of right and wrong, and has the moral fibre of a sewer rat! It's a disgrace and embarassment for our country to even consider his as a potential presidential candidate. I feel like Alice in Wonderland ---- this is too bizarre to be real.

Humbulani 11/26/2007 12:47:21 PM
Government policies are proposed and endorsed by Anc in which Zuma is the Deputy President. The question is if he is talking about such changes if become President, what is his presnt role as a deputy? He knew that a women was HIV and still slept with her without protection. What a leader to be; Actions speaks louder than words!!!!!

Schwang 11/26/2007 12:47:24 PM
Talk is cheap. He's merely saying what he knows everyone wants to hear.

Cape Town Kid 11/26/2007 12:47:34 PM
The balance of forces is finally shifting. Also the expression of views is not only JZ's but based on the views of a collective where the reality is correctly interpreted that these issues needs to be tackled head-on in tandem with building the economy and our nation. Its no pipe-dream and no election talk. He's history in the movement is a testimony of hard work and dedication! JZ 4 President

Realist2 11/26/2007 12:49:04 PM
What does corruption and HIV/Aids have in common?? If Zuma gets to be the president it would be proof that the majority of South Africans allow them to be led by promises. It is obvious that the oldest political trickery is being played - Just look at where the ANC is failing and say the opposite. Zuma has more than likely contracted the HIV virus by sleeping with - shall we say a lady who could have been his daughter. Come on SA can you not see you are being misled.

Zacob Juma 11/26/2007 12:49:15 PM
Zuma's "statements" where just that, spin to assist him in winning the votes of a generally simple minded and easily manipulated populus.

Mxolisi Selby Shabangu 11/26/2007 12:50:03 PM
He will be president surely, theres no going back from this point. But in all the things that he's saying on HIV, Corruption and Crime he sound like a hypocrite to me.

Barry 11/26/2007 12:50:14 PM
1) Tokyo Sexwale 2) Cyril Ramaphosa 3) Evita Bezuidenhout The credibility of Mbeki and Zuma are tarnished and can only do harm both locally and internationally

Razzmatazz 11/26/2007 12:50:42 PM
Policies are a collective effort and no individual should stand up and say "I'll do this and do away with that". A case of calling others 'dictators' while harbouring similar tendencies! I rest my case!!! - Razzmatazz

Dr D 11/26/2007 12:51:13 PM
Its basically so simple. ANYONE who promises the bring back the DEATH PENALTY, will certainly win. Bring it in, Mass implementation at our jails to all those murderers and rapists, and my vote is there.

Constance 11/26/2007 12:51:19 PM
unfortunately that is exactly what a dictator can do. Change the constitution, change the death penalty .. check Mugabe out. Whether he has support or not, he overrules everything. He makes laws that allow him to steal from people, arrest innocent people, take their businesses away, torture people etc.

Cynical 11/26/2007 12:51:40 PM
The only way that JZ will surprise us is to turn our worst expectations into reality. He may be able to fool the ignorant majority but I don't trust that bloke further than I can spit. ANC politicians are all "tarred with same brush" as the saying goes.

fox 11/26/2007 12:53:16 PM
I don't care what he promises, but with the corruption in this country and his legal history, I am glad I am getting out of SA.

Funnybones 11/26/2007 12:53:17 PM
I think Zuma only speaks what the white people of this country wants to hear. He knows his image has been severely tainted especially among white South Africas. What about issues that affect the poor which are mainly service deliver and job creation.

R 11/26/2007 12:54:44 PM
With the historical legacy that guides this contry, there is no doubt that the ANC will win the next national elections. Scarily though, the party are voting to instate a man as president of this country who will no doubt tarnish the view of South Africa in the eyes of the outside world. Mbeki,despite his shortcomings, has not come into question like Zuma. Are we going to be the next US, with a joke for a president?

Frank Talk 11/26/2007 12:57:18 PM
The hype around Zuma is nothing new. We saw the same thing when Mandela became president, Manual became finance minister, Tito got his job, etc. etc. He is beginning to irritate the hell out of me by all these "nice" things he is saying. The ANC will NEVER allow anyone to "bring back the death penalty" and if they do they can count on one less vote. Besides, he won't be able to stay out of jail long enough to do any of these things.

konstabel 11/26/2007 12:57:45 PM
How can he talk about crime and rapists when he himself has been in the dock? And how embarrassing would it be if our president gets convicted in a fraud case against him? Doesn't the voters think about that? I find it shocking.

boni 11/26/2007 12:58:54 PM
crime and corruption: his ally is a convicted criminal and he (zuma) has corruption charges hanging on his head. HIV: he knowingly slept with an HIV positive woman. His finances are a mess, yet he has to be in charge of the whole country finances. and why did he not lobby the ANC and government then to bring back the death penalty, as he had the power to as a deputy president. come on South Africa, we deserve better. i'd rather have Mbeki out of the two evils

CAREFUL 11/26/2007 12:59:31 PM
Demise of everything should SA have JZ as president, i wonder if he'd consider himself for death penalty should he be found guilty of the corruption charges, also the most interesting issue if he becomes SA president i wonder what position will Schabir Shaik be given, there goes our country down the drain,,, Its SAD really SAD

PKPM 11/26/2007 1:00:54 PM
He could have done what he did, show me a politician who is clean. He was a bit unfortunate about being caught and in the limelight. Zuma is sane, a people's person and charismatic. History has proven that Charismatic leaders are best leaders and Zuma is one of them. Mbeki please step down and allow other brains to take over. In the whole of SA do you mean to tell me that Mbeki is the only one who is capable of leading the ANC. Dream on......

MP3 11/26/2007 1:01:08 PM
The vast majority of people will soon realise this horrible mistake but it'll be too late. I'm a little disheartened we don't have more people who think with a sense of clarity. Lemmings I tell you...

anonymous 11/26/2007 1:02:35 PM
WHY DOES ZUMA HAVE TO WAIT UNTIL HE IS PRESIDENT TO DELIVER ALL THESE PROMISES!

mac eksteen 11/26/2007 1:03:25 PM
My opinion like president Clinton he was naughty to the core but man he delivered and is still a favourite to this day.Zuma in my opinion is a similar charismatic who can deliver even though he had been caught with his hand in the cookie jar.His mistakes do not make him a reprobate in no way. Zuma get into power land us the death penalty and strong measure against criminals and many of us will return from abroad to stand next to you.

Shaun 11/26/2007 1:05:06 PM
I only have one question who is Zuma really... All I know about him and I am sure most people is what we where expose to in the news over his aids view and corruption case. Who is he what does he really stand for and what has he done in the past that we could really trust him with this great country. His comments just on aids "I took a shower" tells me that how can he say I will fight aids if he doesn't even know how it works.

sceptical 11/26/2007 1:06:05 PM
I'm reading Martin Meredith's "The State of Africa - 50 years after independence" and I have read numerous accounts of how presidential hopefuls promised the world and delivered little to nothing. Words are cheap, so they say, and I think it is far too easy for Jacob Zuma to promise so much and hope that we will believe it all. Actions speak louder than words, and there are many of Jacob's actions that tell a very different story to the one he is trying to sell us now.

Benzo 11/26/2007 1:06:08 PM
If the choice is out of the two, I prefer Zuma. Simply seen enough of the other one! One thing is wrong in Zuma: the ANC should certainly not unite. Just split ANC up in a socialist and a liberal party to be able to stop the hypocracy of promises to the poor while supporting the rich. This debate belongs in parliament not in the ANC coffee shops.

Rocky 11/26/2007 1:09:22 PM
what is this nonsense about "what white South Africans want to hear"? huh? His image is tainted amongst black and white and please whatever he says is not going to make me vote for him. We don't bump our heads twice against the same rock.

CJ 11/26/2007 1:09:36 PM
The Sky is the limit.if Zuma can convince the delegates,I guess the no way that might stop him from taking the presidential position.Zuma is a better devil!

Nohoper 11/26/2007 1:10:00 PM
Zuma is not the right man to lead this country because of all the scandals he's been through and the court case hanging over his head.Mbeki is no better than Zuma either and Ramaphosa and Sexwale have no hope in hell of becoming presidents.We clearly have a leadership crisis.

JD 11/26/2007 1:10:37 PM
Hey, would'nt it be great if Zuma stuck to his promises, then he is the one for SA. Or, is he just another politician who promises the world and once elected does'nt even give a damn about the man on the street. Zuma, if you are sincere about what you say, you will be the first politician in history to do so.

Jim 11/26/2007 1:11:41 PM
Alas, A politician to the core. Make the noises he people want to hear. But, does this carry the blessing of the new NEC of the ANC? The party determnes policy and not the president. (Their words). Based on JZ's public figure (you decide what is true) he is not the man to run the New SA.

DG 11/26/2007 1:13:08 PM
Millions of South African's from any origin invested in this country, financially and morally. These people would like to see a proud nation beyond 2010. I am afraid that will not happen when a country is ruled by a person who is at scrutiny. What will we tell our children when they grow up. It seems that the ANC can't even produce a president fit to run this country, what a circus!

Zamo S 11/26/2007 1:15:37 PM
I srongly feel, that President Mbheki should step down, his time is up. Corruption seems to be the language of the day driving our country into havoc. Frankly Mbheki has had his time and the results are prevelant, in the shocking statistics on HIV/AIDS, rate of abortions, lack of discipline at schools and homes, with children having more and more rights, so thanks Thabo you've played your part. Frankly i'd rather have Zuma, lets give him a Chance.MSHOLOZIE!!

Maxine 11/26/2007 1:15:39 PM
Jacob Zuma is no different to any other politician who has only his own best interest at heart. He says he will be tough on crime but yet he stands in front of the masses and sings about getting his machine gun to kill the boer. He says he will work harder regarding AIDS, what is going to suggest that you take a hotter shower with Lifebuoy soap? He says corruption is a "sickness of society". What a crock, this from a man who is still to this day being investigated for fraud and corruption.

Richard 11/26/2007 1:19:26 PM
I think it is very disturbing that potentially the next president of this country is between 2 men that most South Africans have no faith in. It is time we had more choice and elect a leader that understands that we are part of a global environment and as such there is no free hand outs. Further, I would like to see the next president be the second truly non-racist South African leader (second after Mandela).

Rikki Rocket 11/26/2007 1:20:25 PM
I am no big JZ fan, and when elections draw near, politicians are all talk. The proof is in the pudding. Anyone can talk a big game before they get elected, but will they be able to deliver? I am all for a president that is SERIOUS about tackling issues like crime and corruption. If JZ be the man, then so be it.

perturbed 11/26/2007 1:22:39 PM
ZUma saying that corruption is a problem in SA. I think I almost died laughing at the Falicy of the situation. My Goodness. Spin Doctoring time comes out when elections near. Unfortuantely we do not have as short a memory span as he'd like us to believe. Unfortuantely, we to common tax-payer doesnt get to decide his fate. The Joys of Living in AFRICA!

Barry 11/26/2007 1:23:14 PM
Bring back the death penalty for sure, we need it.....but Zuma for president? I dont think so!!!

CAREFUL 11/26/2007 1:28:51 PM
fair enough JZ might win ANC-presidency in POLOKWANE but what will happen should the NPA decide to re-charge him, will the ANC have a president who is in court for the 1st-Term of Office? can one of JZ lobbist give us(SOUTH AFRICANS) an indication as to how will this be over-come, or will the NPA be discarded just to benefit JZ.. can all the POLOKWANE delegates put SA 1st and not personal enrichment b4 anything else

Karl 11/26/2007 1:29:12 PM
Unfortunately most people will believa that Zuma is being sincere when he makes his wil promises. If you look at his supporters, they are just like him... protesting outside court while he was on trial instead of working. Typical.

modise 11/26/2007 1:30:24 PM
let's give him a chance to prove us wrong,yes i say he will surprise us all because he has landslidevictory and he got rare leadership qualities accept what he did long time ago.The question is, will he be able to walk away from his troubles?

John 11/26/2007 1:32:01 PM
Lotsa people say a lot of things when they trying to woo the public. I don't trust ANY politician further than I can throw them.

DW 11/26/2007 1:32:30 PM
If Zuma intends to tighten up on crime, what if he is found guilty of the corruption charges (when they eventually press charges that is...) Will he still want heavier sentences and a tough stance if he is the one in prison?

SR 11/26/2007 1:37:55 PM
Mandela predicted that a business-oriented Mbeki would loose touch with the grass roots voters, so no surprise there! Why would someone living in poverty vote for BEE-rich tycoons like Cyril or Tokyo? I dont blame the masses to be honest - but JZ does have the characteristics of previous african dictators (i.e. a hatred of the free press). Pity that SA is following the same road as so many others, will Africa never learn :-(

Uni 11/26/2007 1:39:14 PM
C'mon - get real how often have we heard all these empty promises, not just from the ANC but all parties alike, including the opposition. I personally wish that Tokyo Sexwale would step up to the role of president of this country, a man with business sense - not just political sense. I have no faith in Zuma, I used to have faith in our current president but after this debacle with the health minister and the deputy minister, I lost all respect for him.

Jack 11/26/2007 1:46:02 PM
The idea of a Zuma presidency is frightening. I am not even talking about corruption and AIDS. He represeents factions that are anti-business, anti-capitalism, and anti-Western. We will see more punitive taxes, more racist laws, more hate-speech, more repression of minorities. People like ANCYL and similar illiterate crazies will hold power and influence over us. Those of us who are sane will have no choice but to emigrate.

Johann 11/26/2007 1:49:22 PM
The South African economy is vulnerable. We are heavely dependent on foreign capital investment. If Zuma becomes president, the investment community will not approve. If their money leaves the country, the Rand will collaps forcing interest rates up (20% and higher). This will impact hugely on the growth and prosperity of the middle class. Zuma as president would be a death penalty for South Africa.

ayesha 11/26/2007 1:49:23 PM
People are desperate these days,with the level of crime,corruption and all things bad in this country a change in presidency would be great even if the president has(almost certainly)been dealing in corruption,Shabir Shaiks conviction is proof.Even by some miracle Zuma is innocent,the shower incident shows that our "future"president isnt very educated,or is very smart&would say anything to save himself,dangerous!Mbeki is none the better,saying HIV does not cause Aids,what a sad country we live in

Herman 11/26/2007 1:49:32 PM
Has Jacob Zuma perhaps been underrated as a potential leader? Q - What kind of example has he set for the young of today on moral issues? Will his stances on crime, corruption and HIV/Aids change your mind come voting time, should he run for president? Q - What if he is found guilty is more likely the question and what dilemma will the ANC then face. Is this just clever spin on his part and are his "election promises" likely to amount to nothing? Well he is doing what politician do!

Tebzano 11/26/2007 1:50:40 PM
Zuma reminds of one Goerge Bush, playing on people emotions to win votes. Thereafter he will drag our country down and we will be asking ourselfs how did that happen as they are doing in the US. It is sad that the choice was between him and Mbeki, really sad. The ANC votes were more like the better of the two evils. EISH!!!!!

Whatever 11/26/2007 1:51:48 PM
True words spoken there Uni, I too lost my respect for Mbheki due to the health and security/police ministers. Thing is I just don't know who is better, taking into account the manner in which every Tom, Dick and Sally just jumped on the bandwagon and "made themselves available" just shows me people eager to be in power with no real solution to offer.

Attorney 11/26/2007 1:52:21 PM
Zuma will not surprise us all, he will only surprise the doubting Thomases and prophets of Doom, not us.Zuma will suprise those who secretely haboured malicious and evil intentions against him but not us who knew all along that we needed new leadrship averse to appeasing whites!

Savannah 11/26/2007 1:54:49 PM
We need to introduce the death penalty for a period of one year in order to test whether it will act as a deterrent. Right now your punishment for murder is accommodation and meals for life!

Observing 11/26/2007 1:57:17 PM
We still need a clear picture of Zuma's alleged corruption links to African Defence Systems (ADS) and the Shaik brothers re Armsdeal Scandal.

WTF 11/26/2007 1:57:26 PM
The dude admits that he can't balance his own cheque book and takes showers to prevent transmission of AIDS, and the masses still vote for him to be president? It's a sad, sad state of affairs for SA.

Linda 11/26/2007 1:59:21 PM
I think JZ need to give us a break . we need constructive leaders in this country not opportunists. we need people who will bring investors in this country and help boost our economy .we are not judging him because of his past but i think the country can do better with any other person NOT jz.May somebody please arrange a great holiday for JZ... LINDA

carol 11/26/2007 1:59:30 PM
What about Winnie Baby for his Deputy? Now that is worth thinking about. Hey?

Supporter 11/26/2007 1:59:37 PM
This man will say anything to get people to vote for him!!! Any one who believes a word that comes out of his mouth is really stupid, "The government had politicised HIV/Aids instead of dealing with the pandemic" yea right this from the guy who had a SHOWER after having sex!!!!!!!!

Godfrey 11/26/2007 2:01:02 PM
Remember what was said when Trevor Manuel became finance minister, they said he was not properly qualified.Having said that i would give my vote to anyone who promise to be tough on crime, i don't really care much about other things like economic growth,i can't enjoy the economic growth if i'm dead.

Chris-T 11/26/2007 2:01:07 PM
All I hear here is the shower and corruption. So much for the shallow talk from the saints. The overwhelming majority that nominated him know him far better than most commentators and there's a reason why they want him in power. Some of you should put hate aside and find out more abt his credentials. You sound like scratched records! Get a life and move on. JZ did admit his errors and showed a strong character by moving on purposefully.

K.G. 11/26/2007 2:02:29 PM
For all those that are saying, give him a chance.Do u realise that this is for he presidency of a country and not some school boy clubhouse.Why not give me a chance, I MIGHT get it right, or why dont u take a chance, u Might get it right.Being president is not about taking chances on whether there is a possibility on getting the job done.Zuma is not the man for the job, but frankly there is no one else, so he might just get his chance....Sigh!!!!!!!!!!!

KeithJacobs 11/26/2007 2:03:24 PM
For a person with no integrity or morality, how can he even be thinking of becoming a candidate for the presidency. He will undo all the good that Madiba had done, We will go the way of Zimbabwe, dictatorship, corruption, high inflation, international business will withdraw from SA, our economy will fail, crime will increase. Here AGAIN, we have the politicians normal promises coming in the speeches, promises that will not be delivered AGAIN, conning voters again. ZUMA SA does not NEED you.

Cynicus 11/26/2007 2:04:33 PM
Wow,fella (my apologies if you are a lady)! The fracture in your thought process is scary, coming from someone who professes to uphold the law. And if you're so anti-white/Eurocentricity, why are you trained in a system based on European legal principles (Roman-Dutch law)? Unless you figure the best way to sock it to those Evil White People is to sucker-punch from within ... Bizarre, man, bizarre. But good luck to you anyway!

David 11/26/2007 2:05:06 PM
Zuma will suprise many. this is a man who has survived a rape trial and corruption charges, which at best prove that someone wanted him out of the presidential race at all cost. Because of that, he may may want to prove a point by becoming a good leader....it is probably a blessing in disguise. For Mbeki, it is time to move on..... time to go...no one is completely indespensable. Mbeki views on HIV/Aids, corruption and crime are as unpalatable as the economic collapse views of Mugabe in Zim.

Deon 11/26/2007 2:05:24 PM
I must admit that I am a bit "cautious" of Mr Zuma. But if he does what he says and it's not just pre-election talk, I will vote for him!!

Yandani Botile 11/26/2007 2:05:51 PM
Jacob Zuma is not a role model he will corrupt the country, I dont think he will ever be suitable for being a president.

Anon 11/26/2007 2:06:33 PM
I met Jacob Zuma a few months ago and I was surprised by his charisma. I learnt more about the real him by meeting him that by reading nonsense in the papers. Sure he might not be my first choice but if I had to choose between Zuma and Mbeki, i think Mbeki's policies are SCARY. They have devided us as a nation and put the races at opposing sides. Much of this has to do with Mbeki's own inerpretation of ANC policies. A man like Zuma is a peacmaker among people. We need that.

Chris-T 11/26/2007 2:08:17 PM
The only ppl who underrate JZ are those who know nothing abt ANC politics. Those in the know have strongly endorse his leadership. Most here don't even know what his role has been in building up the ANC. I suggest that they visit the website 'who's who of SA' to kick-start their research abt this man. From there on, they can only improve on their stereotypes.

NickC 11/26/2007 2:08:49 PM
When JZ was fired as deputy president why did he not start to make all of the noises about HIV, crime and corruption? Why now that he stands on the brink of the presidency of the ANC does he start making the noises he believes we want to hear. JZ, stand up and tell us from the heart what you really want to do - and then start doing it!!! As a memeber of the ANC NEC and the parties deputy president SURELY you can start to put words into ACTION. Or will the ANC NEC pull your strings??

Mandla Ngcobo 11/26/2007 2:12:04 PM
We need people like you in this country. The goverment used NPA to stop JZ becoming the president and people stood up.JZ is not impressing anyone, he is a collective man.JZ is saying if you(including morons like Tracey,Gareth, Paul, MP3, Fox etc)the people/masses of SA want the death sentance he will listen and engage his leadership unlike Mbeki who decides things over cigars & cognac.In JZ we have a leader. He erred and he apologised.Lets unite & support this man. "JZ my president"

Philani 11/26/2007 2:12:53 PM
White people have always raised the issues of Corruption and Shower whenever commenting on Zuma becomimg our Prsident.They forget the cloud is still hanging over them about the attrocitities we black people went through during their era, and we FORGAVE THEM, its bad that they cannot forgive Zuma when it comes to them forgiving,but when they need something from a black person suddenly the word reconcilliation pops up. Who is zooming who?

Peter Matlou 11/26/2007 2:15:41 PM
JZ will make a perfect president for South Africa.His views matters but I think the unity amongst the ANC memebrs will be improved.He has a good listening skill and can go down to the level of the people.Those investors who are scared and want to leave will come back sooner than they have left.The voice of the people is JZ and democracy is just that.

B. Fury 11/26/2007 2:16:06 PM
It's the oldest trick in the book. Telling people what they want to hear. Mbeki is not that much better. I actually used to think he was quite up on his game and intelligent but he is clueless. Tokyo Sexwale is the only one I have any faith in.

gapes 11/26/2007 2:17:49 PM
I agree 100% with Zuma, "how can our country be run with friends,After all Mbeki does not know what is happening in his own country cause his always in other countries.

JHF 11/26/2007 2:17:55 PM
I think this country neither needs both contestants for president. Hopefully someone will rise to the occation soon. Someone who has a friend or family member being hijacked, raped, murdered ect who knows what the nation needs, not what politicians want.

Stef 11/26/2007 2:18:22 PM
The policy conference of the ANC has come and gone, there was no discussion on death penalty if you don't believe look for yourself in the ANC's webside. Zuma is a populist and he will do anything to gain the power he lost when he got fired in 2005. Afterall he was the government leader on HIV and AIDS and still went on to sleep with an HIV positive woman and then took a showere to wash off the virus. He is fighting the NPA from obtaining documents which could link him to corruption.

me 11/26/2007 2:22:00 PM
White people are just one living, breathing life form with no independent thought process whose main operandi on this earth is to keep you down, get over yourself,you generalizing low life...I bet if I said all black men are rapists you would be all over me like white on rice how dare you generalize 4 million people...

Bugalu 11/26/2007 2:22:10 PM
i dont care who becomes president of the anc or country, at the end of the day he is only human just like the people who will vote him into power. what i care about is that he must not think he is better than the rest of us and he must ask what we as south africans want, not what he thinks we want. that is why we vote him in, as for the current president, its time to ship out, there are things you did right and wrong, i dont care, you've had your chance. now its time to move out...

Boertjie 11/26/2007 2:25:15 PM
Giving government more power in these instances may be a very BAD idea. I'll wager they'll use it to suppress dissent (a GRAVE crime for any shade of communist) rather than the REAL crime that affects everybody (see Putin's Russia for one recent example, China also comes to mind). A corrupt state can't be trusted to administer justice justly. They have enough power, let them start USING it for a change, and leave the death penalty where it is.

Sphephelo 11/26/2007 2:25:30 PM
Well much of the sceptical messages are not new,ask Mandela.Lets be realistic negative things some people believe will happen to SA should he be enthroned,are the wishes of the evil minded.In opposing be fair and guard against jealousy.

Banni 11/26/2007 2:26:08 PM
Haleluja, It looks like at last we will have our Coutry back from Mbeki regime and his cronnies. Go Zuma Go.

kris 11/26/2007 2:26:11 PM
Zuma is part of the nec of the anc for him to come out and say all these things is rhetocric he is trying had to become president thinking that maybe it might buy him freedom from his case, the death penalty won't be the presidents decision it will be constitutioal court decision as well i for one not suprised by this some anc members have no respect for the law thinkikng they are the law

mk 11/26/2007 2:29:51 PM
zuma alone cannot bring back the death penalty - this is a constitutional issue. as for the other promises - talk is cheap. the ANC is too divided at present. zuma wants to be president not to lead,but to proof that he can become president. on the moral issues - he is the last to utter a word.

La Kopa 11/26/2007 2:30:04 PM
Jacob Zuma is not a presidential material, period. What has the man really done that warrants him the top position? He needs to get his matric first..... Polygamy will be legal with Zuma.

Sphiwe 11/26/2007 2:30:56 PM
Pres. Mbeki is doing his best to stay in power as if to protect something? What could that be? Dictators all over the world have done it over and over again. It's a downward spiral they can't get out of.Surely Mbeki knows what he's done and he'doing everything he can to cover up or protect himself and his cronnies!!!!

Anon 11/26/2007 2:31:04 PM
Pre-1994 everyone was screaming that SA would go to the dogs. There have been some good and obviously some bad with The whole change from an apartheid to a democratic govt brough about some good and some bad but it really wasn't as bad as everyone predicted. Maybe it will be that way when Zuma takes over.Neither Cyril nor Tokyo are going to be president- they are seen by the majority as being pushers of minority interests.

Jomal 11/26/2007 2:32:28 PM
Surely they are all the same, Thabo or Jacob. This country needs someone outside this guerilla mentality of looking after your comrades. Perhaps it's about time that the ANC split 'cos some of us are really tired of this corruption which led to prioritisation of state resources(build and supported through taxpayers' money)to their buddies(that's stealing from taxpayers). I am just worried for the gay community as JZ will kick them so HARD like he said.....

Realist2 11/26/2007 2:34:21 PM
A few weeks ago all of you screamed blue murder because Tito increased the interest rates. If Zuma gets elected the rand will weaken and guess what, interest rates will go up. It is about what the world thinks because we are operating in a global economy. For the sake of all of us, choose Cyril or Tokyo, but not Zuma guys - pleeeeease.

SmthJzzFan 11/26/2007 2:34:34 PM
Mbeki is not running for the presidency of the country you fool. He's trying to run for the presidency of the ANC.

Chris-T 11/26/2007 2:34:57 PM
Democracy is an interesting thing. I like the concept that JZ raised abt referendum and consultation. Comments were ruling him out as a president, but people have spoken and they put in a good position to be one. The same will be true abt death penalty when people are called upon to decide if it should be re-instated. JZ says people will have to decide on that one. Only when he is the ANC president can he influence the way policies are made and the extent of consultation.

Sphiwe 11/26/2007 2:35:28 PM
The downfall of the ANC began with Mbeki's election as president. The ANC has become a big direction-less church whose leader has become so big-headed that he thinks he can do anything. There is no free debate and opinion within a party that fought for the freedom of this country. Whose freedom are they protecting now?

Cynicus 11/26/2007 2:36:58 PM
Philani, ummm, if you read a little more closely, you might notice that a lot of us passing comment are as much against JZ's corruption and dubious morals as against the same thing in anyone else (black/white/yellow/etc.). Philani, it's about credibility ... and JZ has ZERO credibility outside of sub-Saharan Africa.

La Kopa 11/26/2007 2:37:50 PM
Jacob Zuma is not a presidential material, period. What has the man really done that warrants him the top position? He needs to get his matric first..... Polygamy will be legal with Zuma.

George 11/26/2007 2:40:35 PM
Just a conribution to this hot debate. Tony Leon said and I quote" The dismissal has strengthened and boosted his political career" What is happening in the ANC is not a miracle. Umsholozi is on his way to the union buildings. Tokyo Sexwale, Cyril Ramaphosa and Mathews Phosa were once accused of trying to topple President Mbeki. Tokyo was once accused of drug trafficking. Today he is a billionaire canvassing for my vote. A reminder that Zuma is not the only one with skeletons in his closet!Doink.

sam 11/26/2007 2:42:05 PM
Funnybones...ur ignorant statement is funnier than Zuma becoming president. Do u think crime, HIV/Aids, rape & drugs are only experienced by whites...come to Africa more so SA where we experience it on a daily basis. U just couldnt resist a racist comment to trigger comments hey, u a$$h0le. Incase u havent read about it or seen it on the telly, Blacks, Coloureds & Indians r all living in this Hell hole of abuse, drugs, etc...so Shut up & get a life if u dont have something concrete to post.

CT 11/26/2007 2:44:08 PM
C'mon people. What is wrong with him sleeping with a positive person? Is that not discrimination against PLWHA? Let us bear in mind that we do not know the real Zuma.The picture that we have is one painted by the newspapers. Does it mean all the other candidates are so prim and proper? I chose to disagree because we do not know their skeletons. I say JZ for president of the country whether educated or not. We need a leader who understands the needs of the people just like Nelson was a people?s leader

STM 11/26/2007 2:44:15 PM
Why would he vote for the death penalty when he voted to have it removed. why would he be against corruption when he is trying to get out of corruption charges by any which way. All talk to get votes.

Mabhacabhaca 11/26/2007 2:46:30 PM
Surely most people have their opinions about who shoud lead us (ANC), when they don't even fall within the rank and file. let us give the ANC the chance to choose its leader without the interference and opinions of prophets of doom. surely the ANC members are well resourced to decide... if it's Zuma so be it... abantu bazobe sebekhulumile. 100% Msholozi!!!

Zk 11/26/2007 2:48:51 PM
I agree we need a change from the Mbeki administration, the man deeply dissappointed me. However is JZ the man to lead us forward, I don't seem to think so.

Tshedza 11/26/2007 2:49:12 PM
Jaa, as ordinary South African, who are not card carrying members of the ANC, we've no power to elect the person to occupy the highest post in the land. But, Zuma should try to refrain to associate himself with people from the tribe which is well-known of being skillful in corrupt activities. In order to avoid dictatorship,ANc members at the conference should vote against Pres Mbeki. In my opinion, I don't see much difference between our President and Robert Mugabe of Zimbabwe. let him lead us.

The Oracle 11/26/2007 2:49:44 PM
Hoe can there be only 2 average candidates to be the next president of South Africa? I know at least 10 people at work (they are all blacks) that will be better suited for the presidency then Bheki and Zuma! As for the death penalty - Please bring it back. Public excecutions every Friday night will even be better!

modupi 11/26/2007 2:51:32 PM
Mbeki must be given a change, he is the one who can keep peace in our land, not curruption,he must bring back death penalty & remove those currupt friends in the parliament

Idealist 11/26/2007 2:51:57 PM
The guy has no economic policy, Mbeki had plenty. The guy is just a useful idiot. What's he gonna do when he becomes president. It will be time for payback, imagine Fikile, Vavi and Blade. They will be back to collect the favours. Mbeki was a lot better, the problem was his aloofness and arrogance, maybe too educated for ANCYL, Cosatu and SACP.

How 11/26/2007 2:55:00 PM
this strong majority party with millions and millions of voters only have two candidates, both of which is not a very commendable.

TSO 11/26/2007 2:58:04 PM
JZ is economical with the truth when he say that the abolishing of the death penalty was not called for by the ANC.Any person who can read,write and hear knows that the ANC is against the death penalty.The danger with talks like calling for a referundum on the death penalty is certain minority rights may be wiped away in a referundum.For example,if the ANC does not like the courts'decision on property rights they will simply call for a referundum.We know who is likely to lose.Please be careful.

Zeyta 11/26/2007 2:58:22 PM
What has happened to the country's moral;s and values. How the hell can I believe an old man who can't hold on to his pants- when he sees an HIV+ person in a kanga? to do something about Aids. We are not kids, please. NPA charge this man, please!!!

Gary 11/26/2007 3:00:48 PM
Neither of these two candidates have shown any form of true leadership and both ot their moral fiber and integrity are open to question.......Let us see some trueley real leaders, give us a Madiba or Ghandi.... we can live and hope

Tsipa 11/26/2007 3:02:05 PM
That's what we want to hear, but is it what he'll do? It's a boy wanting to enter into the girl's pants. he will say all the right things untill he gets what he wants. Zuma is likely to do exactly the same things he claims to dislikes, like corruption and patronism. people like Mbalula and Vavi are waiting for cabinet posts from him.

kolobe 11/26/2007 3:02:56 PM
Take this for example.JZ said "I will bring back the death penalty if a referendum indicated that this was what South Africans wanted". four years down the line ask Pre. Zuma why is there no Death penalty.simple "the refererudum has shown that it is not necesary".Who will sign this referendum?majority are againts it because of the unstansformed judiciary system...politians are wise...

Fanclub 11/26/2007 3:10:46 PM
What's everyone so frightened about? Zuma's only human - we all have our flaws. Bet there are skeletons bigger than showers in your closets too. Zuma's got my vote simply because he's more in touch with the bottom feeders. He's a people's person and I'm sure he'll stay true to his word. I've got a lot of respect for the man. And to all those talking about education & illiteracy - please tell me how you know that a person is educated? Is it because he's black?

Jk 11/26/2007 3:12:12 PM
Blah, blah, blah.....Zuma is just like any other politician, all promises and no deed. All this promises are just being made to be elected and after that things will go as normal as ever if not worse. I would like to see him bring back the death penalty and tackle the HIV/Aids issue, maybe he is going to add on by Manto's statement of eating garlic and beetroot by teaching people to take a shower after having sex with a HIV + woman? Presidents of a nation should lead by example, Madiba was the first and the last!

Gee 11/26/2007 3:15:10 PM
This is dirty politics, Zuma is buying into whites minds. Talking is cheap, I now start to believe in Mahlangu's statement that politicians never lies but tell you exactly what you want to hear, well done to Zuma' strategist.

Susan 11/26/2007 3:16:20 PM
For the first time I'm concerned about mine and in particular my children's prospects in staying in this country. As a technical person I've fortunately got options to live just about anywhere but I've always wanted to stay right here. But the fact that there is no decent leader to take over after 10 years and that there is so much misinformation is scary. Many of my colleagues feel the same way. We all know people and businesses that have already left and are now encouraging us to leave while we can. We are watching this situation very closely and praying that we make the right decisions.

Rick 11/26/2007 3:19:17 PM
A Leader needs to be exemplary and worthy of our trust. A person of integrity. We the people let ourselves down by electing such an unworthy candidate. I ask you with tears in my eyes, what direction will Zuma lead me in regarding HIV/Aids? What direction will he lead me in regarding corruption when he is embroiled in such controversy?

Anon 11/26/2007 3:19:24 PM
It really does not matter what he promises, nothing good can come from a president who has not completed primary school, who believes you can prevent Aids by taking a shower and over whose head hangs charges of corruption.

Martin 11/26/2007 3:24:32 PM
Most people keep bringing the shower issue everytime Zuma's name is mentioned, let me clearify this Mr Zuma was asked by the counsel, what did u do after having sex his reply was I took a shower!!!!! what is wrong with that? Are we saying had he answered by saying I sat on my bed that would heal HIV/AIDS?Let's inform ourselves about this issues prior we make senseless statements.Grow up and look at what is happening here this man is being voted by very educated people who know what they doing.

Afrikanernooi 11/26/2007 3:32:39 PM
How on earth can they elect a man, who?s been involved with corruption and rape, as the president of our country?! I think it?s really idiotic of Zuma to say he wants to tackle corruption when he, himself, accepted bribes from people. And how can he tackle HIV/AIDS when he thinks a shower is going to ?wash away? the infection. The guy is an uneducated fool (who should actually be behind bars, not in parliament) and everybody who is gullible enough to vote for him should wake up and smell the coffee?.

mp3's mentor 11/26/2007 3:36:33 PM
what does the death penalty mean when the conviction rate is 4%. it will only mean you will get sentenced to death after you kill an intruder in your own house who is about to rape your wife and kids. zuma is an idiot and the blind masses who vote for him are even bigger idiots. they deserve every bit of hardship and poverty they endure if they vote this corrupt rapist in as president. why are the masses so damn thick. never under estimate stupid people in large groups

tshepo 11/26/2007 3:37:59 PM
dangerous alliances in Cosatu,ANCYL and the SACP, have you heard their rhetoric? if i was white i would prefer Mbeki to Zuma. Having said that JZ will become president, the death penalty won't come back and SA will still be fine.

EDU 11/26/2007 3:51:51 PM
How many managers have only matric and their subbordinates are more qualified than them?, many. People must stop making education an issue. We have Mbeki, very educated and makes uneducated decisions. Zuma must be given a chance. Those who are scared, should find themselves homes outside South Africa.If Mbeki does not want to let go now, imagine the problems he'll give us after 5 years, he'll want to stay forever and be a dictator. We need change and so Zuma is loved by the masses.

WHY 11/26/2007 4:01:48 PM
Some people just refuse to be optimistic. It started with the world cup and now is on Zuma. South Africa is not ready for 2010 by far, but guess what we are ready and we'll pull it off in style. Zuma is not presidential material,show me someone who is?.We have a president who protects the Mafia(Jackie Selebi, etc) and people have the nerve to say he's the man.Better a devil we know than angel who stab us from behind, making us his fools.Mbeki's expiry date is almost reached, he should exit...

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