Jacob Zuma Launches New Political Party Manifesto, Vows to Combat Poverty and Crime

JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA — Former South African President Jacob Zuma has unveiled the manifesto for his new political party, uMkhonto weSizwe (MK Party), promising to tackle poverty, create jobs, and address crime. Speaking to thousands of supporters at Orlando Stadium in Johannesburg on Saturday, Zuma pledged to build factories, provide free education, and restore power to traditional leaders.

"We want our children to study for free, especially those from poor households because the poverty we have was not created by us. It was created by settlers who took everything, including our land. We'll take all those things back, make money, and educate our children," Zuma declared to a cheering crowd.

Zuma criticized the current socio-economic conditions, particularly the high levels of poverty among black South Africans, which he attributed to the legacy of colonialism and apartheid. He assured the audience that his party would prioritize economic empowerment and land restitution.

The MK Party, launched in December last year, has quickly gained traction and is poised to be a significant player in South Africa's upcoming elections. Zuma outlined his vision to amend the Constitution to empower traditional leaders, arguing that their roles have been diminished in favor of the judiciary.

The former president, however, faces legal challenges. The Independent Electoral Commission barred him from running due to his criminal record, a decision he is currently appealing.

Zuma was sentenced to 15 months in prison for contempt of court after refusing to testify before a commission investigating corruption during his presidency from 2009 to 2018. Despite being forced to resign in 2018 amid widespread corruption allegations, Zuma is determined to return to the political arena.

Addressing unemployment and poverty, Zuma emphasized the connection between economic hardship and crime. "Our hunger and poverty is what creates a perception that we are criminals. We don't have a brain, we have nothing. That time is over, because we are good people who are giving, but some people are pushing us towards criminality," he asserted.

Zuma aims for the MK Party to secure over 65% of the national vote, which would enable them to enact significant legislative changes.

Recent polls indicate that the ruling African National Congress (ANC) might fall below 50% of the vote, potentially necessitating a coalition with smaller parties to maintain power.

The upcoming elections, scheduled for May 29, will be a crucial test for Zuma's political comeback and the future of South African politics. As the campaign heats up, the promises of economic revival and social justice are central to Zuma's appeal to voters disillusioned with the status quo.