Latest news with #JacobZuma
IOL News
6 hours ago
- Politics
- IOL News
Zuma's Secret Pitch to Morocco: Schools, Security, and Support for Landless South Africans
The ANC accused Jacob Zuma of betraying South Africa's foreign policy principles and demanded an apology from Morocco for using the South African flag during his visit. Image: Tumi Pakkies / Independent Newspapers Former president Jacob Zuma's recent visit to Morocco has ignited a political firestorm in Pretoria, but newly leaked documents reveal that his mission went far beyond diplomacy. In private meetings with Moroccan officials, Zuma made a bold and controversial request for strategic and financial backing to support new education, intelligence, and security initiatives in South Africa. According to documents now circulating among diplomatic insiders, Zuma appealed to the Moroccan government for help building two advanced education institutions: one in Pretoria and another in his rural hometown of Nkandla. Video Player is loading. 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Next Stay Close ✕ These schools, he said, would focus on mathematics, science, coding, information technology, and artificial intelligence — skills he believes are essential for the future of South Africa's youth, particularly those left behind by decades of government failure. But Zuma's vision extended beyond classrooms. He also requested support for establishing a college of military intelligence and combat training, based in Pretoria but privately run. This proposed institution, according to the leaked notes, would serve as a training hub for defensive operations in response to what Zuma described as increasing threats to South African citizens. In a further indication of how deeply Zuma's political strategy diverges from the ruling African National Congress (ANC), he also sought what the documents refer to as 'security support.' While no specific operations or actions were detailed, Zuma reportedly told the Moroccans that his newly formed uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) party is preparing for a "second revolution," arguing that the ANC has betrayed the dreams of South Africa's black majority. 'The ANC has sold out,' Zuma said in one closed-door session, as quoted in the leaked documents. 'They have failed to return land to our people. Thirty years and nothing has changed. We are building a new movement to finish what we started.'Perhaps the most explosive aspect of Zuma's visit was his formal endorsement of Morocco's autonomy plan over Western Sahara. In a sharp departure from South Africa's long-standing support for the Polisario Front and its bid for independence, Zuma told Moroccan officials he understood that no sovereign state would simply give land away. He framed his support as a symbolic move on behalf of South Africa's landless poor.'I speak for the millions who remain dispossessed,' he said. 'If the ANC won't return land to its rightful owners at home, then I stand with those who have a plan — even if it is outside our borders.' Zuma said the plan to expropriate section 25 of the Constitution to make it possible to give land to black South Africans was shot down by many in his old party, the ANC. This statement, and Zuma's warm reception in Rabat, sparked immediate outrage in Pretoria. The ANC accused Zuma of betraying South Africa's foreign policy principles and demanded an apology from Morocco for using the South African flag during his visit. The party's leadership issued a blistering statement, calling Zuma's behaviour 'opportunistic' and 'shameful.'Yet the ANC's furious response also signals something deeper: a growing fear that Zuma's influence is expanding, particularly among disenfranchised voters. His MK party emerged as a surprise political force in recent elections, and his radical rhetoric is resonating with citizens frustrated by inequality, corruption, and the lack of land say Zuma's strategic pivot — combining education, military training, and foreign alliances — could redefine the country's opposition politics. While critics view it as reckless and divisive, supporters argue that Zuma is speaking the truth about a broken post-apartheid promise. As the ANC scrambles to contain the diplomatic fallout, Morocco appears undeterred. Its leadership continues to gain allies across Africa in its bid to resolve the Western Sahara conflict in its favor. With Zuma now among them, Rabat has landed another high-profile endorsement — and in doing so, may have fueled a new political battle on South African soil.
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First Post
18 hours ago
- Politics
- First Post
Africa News Live Updates: MK's Sahara shock, Sudan's oil conflict, Nigeria's budget battles
July 23, 2025, 10:54:40 (IST) Whatsapp Facebook Twitter MK party's Western Sahara stance introduces foreign policy uncertainty for South Africa A representative for Western Sahara's Polisario Front, Mohamed Beisat, has stated the movement will not publicly criticise former South African President Jacob Zuma, despite his recent visit to Morocco and suggestions from his MK party that Western Sahara should be a Moroccan province, Mail & Guardian says in a report. This development introduces a significant element of foreign policy unpredictability for South Africa. The MK party's position is a stark deviation from South Africa's long-established policy of recognising the Saharawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR). For investors and businesses, this signals potential instability and a lack of policy cohesion within South Africa's new political landscape, which could heighten political risk and complicate commercial engagements in North Africa, particularly with nations like Algeria, a key supporter of the SADR.
IOL News
19 hours ago
- Politics
- IOL News
We need to ignore meaningless commissions and build on our hard-won freedoms
The irony of the map of Africa With reference to the spat between the ANC, EFF and MKP regarding Jacob Zuma's visit to Morocco, it is amusing to observe their defence of colonialism's biggest legacy in the light of their fervent anti-colonial rhetoric and historical "struggle" against colonialism. The territorial demarcation of the map of Africa is colonialism's most enduring legacy. The boundaries of colonies were the result of territorial and economic greed among the European colonisers, each scrambling in the late 19th century to aggrandize their empires. Through invasion and conquest, the intervention of European powers in Africa was a violent collision between Western and African cultures the aftershocks of which persist to this day. The biggest mistake the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) made on its formation in 1963 was its failure to redraw the map of Africa based on tribal and cultural integrity. Instead, the newly emancipated pursued power and prestige as presidents of the "states" bequeathed to them by colonialism. The only territory to break free of the colonial map is Eritrea – after a brutal and devastating 40- year war with Ethiopia. History shows that boundaries are not permanent. Eastern Europe's boundaries changed twice in the 20th century – post World War I and after the collapse of the USSR. Currently, separatist movements exist in Scotland and Spain. There is even one in the Western Cape. So it is ironic that the ANC, EFF and MKP are vociferous about preserving national sovereignty based on colonial boundaries. It's a pity that fondness does not extend to some of the worthwhile legacies of colonialism, such as medicine, education and infrastructure. | DR DUNCAN DU BOIS Bluff A tale of dreadful suffering and woe This is the most severe and devastating phase of starvation the Gaza Strip has experienced. Without exaggeration or distortion, the population is currently enduring a real famine. Humanitarian aid is virtually nonexistent. Available goods are extremely scarce and limited. Prices have reached astronomical levels, unaffordable even for those who still possess financial means. Most citizens, already exhausted by war and repeated displacement alerts, no longer have any money. The commission fees on withdrawing funds can be up to 45%. Numerous individuals have reported that for several days, they and their children have not eaten bread – the staple and often sole item on the table – because the price of 1kg of flour has reached $20 (R355). Other food items are simply inaccessible. Despite claims made nearly a month ago, when Prime Minister Netanyahu announced the allowance of humanitarian aid into Gaza – including the entrance of aid trucks through border crossings and the operations of Israeli-American companies distributing food in high-risk zones (which, according to the latest UN report, resulted in the deaths of 798 civilians) – the reality on the ground remains starkly different. From the beginning, we warned that these aid deliveries were nothing more than misleading media propaganda intended to silence international criticism and obscure the ongoing campaign of military extermination being carried out by the occupying forces .In truth, more than 80% of the population does not receive any of this aid due to multiple factors: The general scarcity of aid, widespread theft and looting along the supply chain and in storage facilities, and serious deficiencies in logistical organisation and distribution mechanisms. In practical terms, civilians in Gaza have been under total siege and subjected to deliberate starvation since March 2, 2025 – the date the occupying forces closed the border crossings. That was 131 consecutive days ago. Since then, nothing new has entered their homes. Moreover, the population has been completely deprived of all meat products, dairy, vegetables, and fruits. The limited aid that does arrive consists solely of canned goods, dried legumes, and starchy foods such as rice and pasta. Additionally, the complete lack of access to essential medications has led to thousands of preventable deaths. This is an urgent message to all concerned parties: Gaza's people are enduring one of the most extreme forms of starvation, torture, and denial of their basic human rights – especially of late. The narrative that aid is entering Gaza and reaching those in need is profoundly misleading. The reality is that most of the population – those who are paying the price with their lives and health – continue to be denied access to food and critical resources, while propaganda serves the interests of those benefiting from false claims about aid distribution. | Alaa (full name withheld) Gaza Strip Commissions of inquiry rarely of value A few weeks ago, South Africans heard serious allegations about the existence and operation of a sophisticated criminal syndicate that has allegedly infiltrated law enforcement structures. On Sunday, July 13, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced the formation of a commission of inquiry to focus on the shocking allegations made by KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi and how the alleged deep-rooted corruption will be addressed. While I agree that the allegations must be attended to with the necessary diligence and that all parties must be given a fair chance to express themselves, citizens are tired of the many costly, time-consuming and unsuccessful commissions of inquiry. The most famous commission of inquiry, the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Allegations of State Capture, Corruption and Fraud in the Public Sector, also known as the Zondo Commission, has yet to see its recommendations fully implemented or justice served against those who benefited from the abuse of power and state capture. Instead of a 'leave of absence', Ramaphosa should have suspended Minister Senzo Mchunu as a deterrent measure, thoroughly investigated the allegations, and then, if proven on a balance of probabilities, dismissed the minister after a fair that have the potential to uncover the truth only matter if their findings lead to action and are backed by consequences, sanctions, and justice. | MOHAMED SAEED Pietermaritzburg We need to build on the freedoms we won As we navigate the complexities of our 30-year democracy, it's essential to remember the principles that guided our struggle for freedom and continue to shape our path towards a more just and equitable society. In South Africa, we have made significant progress since the dawn of democracy. We've built a Constitution that enshrines the rights and freedoms of all citizens, regardless of race, gender, or creed. We've made strides in promoting social justice, addressing the legacy of apartheid, and building a more inclusive economy. However, we still face significant challenges. Inequality, poverty, and unemployment remain pressing issues, and we need to work together to address them. As liberals, we believe that individual freedom, equality, and democracy are essential to creating a society where everyone can thrive. We need to promote economic growth, investment, and job creation, while ensuring the benefits of growth are shared fairly among all South Africans. We need to protect and strengthen our democratic institutions, ensuring that they remain accountable to the people and responsive to their also need to celebrate our diversity and promote social cohesion. South Africa is a rainbow nation, and our diversity is our strength. By embracing our differences and promoting tolerance, we can build a more harmonious and inclusive society. As liberals, we believe the answers to South Africa's challenges lie in our shared values of freedom, equality, and democracy. We need to work together, across party lines and sectors, to build a brighter future for all South Africans. Let us continue to uphold these liberal values, working together to build a South Africa where everyone can live with dignity, pursue their dreams, and contribute to the greater good. A South Africa where freedom, equality, and democracy thrive. | Thulani Dasa Khayelitsha DAILY NEWS
Ya Biladi
a day ago
- Politics
- Ya Biladi
After Zuma's visit to Morocco, South Africa hosts forum backing Polisario
Former South African President Jacob Zuma's recent endorsement of Morocco's sovereignty over Western Sahara has sent shockwaves through political circles in both Pretoria and Algiers. In response, the South African Embassy in Algeria quickly organized a diplomatic forum in support of the Polisario Front. According to Algerian media, representatives from «around fifteen countries» attended the event, while the Polisario's press agency reported the presence of «about twenty ambassadors». Interestingly, both sources highlighted only two speeches: those of the South African ambassador and the Polisario representative in Algiers. The forum ended with a joint statement reiterating positions long familiar to attendees of similar pro-Polisario gatherings, whether held in Africa or elsewhere. Notably, South Africa had already held a session of this diplomatic forum in Algiers on April 2 9. It is unusual for such events, typically initiated by South Africa's diplomatic mission in Algeria in support of the Polisario, to occur in such close succession. This latest edition was clearly prompted by Jacob Zuma's backing, as leader of the MK party, for Morocco's autonomy plan in Western Sahara, a position strongly condemned by the ruling African National Congress (ANC). Just last week, Algeria sent envoys to Pretoria for discussions with South African officials and ANC members on the political fallout of Zuma's stance, and its implications for South Africa's recognition of the so-called «SADR», which it officially recognized in 2004. The issue was also raised on July 18 in Algiers during a meeting between Algerian Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf and his Polisario «counterpart», Mohamed Yeslem Beissat.
Ya Biladi
a day ago
- Politics
- Ya Biladi
ANC urges Morocco to «apologize» for use of South African flag during Jacob Zuma visit
After several days of silence, South Africa's ruling African National Congress (ANC), led by President Cyril Ramaphosa, has finally responded to former President Jacob Zuma's show of support for Morocco's sovereignty over the Sahara. Zuma, who now heads the uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK) party, had sparked controversy with his position. «We condemn the opportunistic involvement of Jacob Zuma, who has aligned himself with efforts that erode South Africa's standing in the international commuity and betray the principles of non-alignment, peace, and anti-colonial solidarity that he once purported to uphold», the ANC said in a statement. «It is shameful that a former leader of a liberation movement s betraying our historical mission and showing his true colors as he stands in opposition to the aim of contributing to the creation of a better Africa and world that is more humane, just, equitable, democratic, and free». The ANC concluded this section of its statement, addressing Zuma's visit to Morocco, by reaffirming its position: «We reiterate our call for the completion of the decolonization process in Africa, in order to safeguard the right to self-determination for African peoples still under colonial rule. The ANC calls upon all progressive forces within the continent and around the world to intensify their solidarity with the people of Western Sahara in their pursuit of self-determination». The South African Flag and a Diplomatic Incident The party also expressed «deep concern over a troubling situation involving the Kingdom of Morocco». It condemned the use of South Africa's national flag during a bilateral meeting with an opposition figure «who does not represent the democratically elected government of South Africa». «This reckless and provocative act constitutes a flagrant violation of international diplomatic norms and constitutes an unacceptable intrusion into South Africa's internal political affairs. It is a dangerous attempt to delegitimize our constitutional order and discredit the authority of a democratically elected government», the ANC stated. «The inclusion of our national symbols in partisan activities hosted by foreign powers is not only misleading but part of a broader agenda of foreign interference», Ramaphosa's party added. The ANC has called on the South African Ministry of Foreign Affairs to issue a formal diplomatic protest to Morocco and to demand immediate clarification and an official apology from Moroccan authorities. This diplomatic protest, however, comes as a surprise. The South African flag was visibly displayed, alongside the Algerian flag, during a meeting in December 2023 between the ANC's secretary-general and Salah Goudjil, the former president of Algeria's Upper House. The flag was also present during talks between Algerian Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf and senior ANC officials. In South Africa, Jacob Zuma's MK party, now the country's third-largest political force, has positioned itself as a leading opponent of President Ramaphosa's administration. Political tensions have been mounting in recent weeks. On Friday, MK supporters held a demonstration outside the presidential palace in Pretoria, calling for .
