Zuma’s Legacy Under The Spotlight: ANC Remained Above 50% Despite Media And EFF Attacks

The contrasting political fortunes of former president Jacob Zuma and incumbent President Cyril Ramaphosa have sparked renewed debate over leadership, political influence, and the long-term trajectory of the African National Congress. At the heart of the discussion is how each leader managed to preserve the governing party’s authority during their respective tenures in office.

Supporters of Zuma frequently highlight that, despite years of intense scrutiny from media outlets, opposition figures, and civil society groups, the ANC maintained its absolute majority during his presidency, consistently securing more than 50 percent of the vote nationwide. They contrast those figures with Ramaphosa’s tenure,arguing that despite receiving significant initial backing from business leaders and sections of the media, his leadership has coincided with unprecedented electoral declines for the party. Zuma loyalists also criticize opposition movements like the Economic Freedom Fighters, claiming the party was far more aggressive in challenging Zuma than it has been in holding Ramaphosa accountable.

However, political analysts point out that the ANC’s declining electoral fortunes cannot be blamed on any single individual or external commentary. The steep drop in support reflects years of accumulated voter frustration over widespread corruption, economic stagnation, persistent unemployment, and failing municipal services across the country. Furthermore, internal factionalism and organizational divisions within the party have severely weakened its operational strength over time, alienating traditional supporters who once viewed the ANC as irreplaceable.

The results of the recent local government elections have only deepened concerns within the party leadership as political momentum shifts toward opposition movements and local coalitions. With the 2029 national elections approaching, the ANC faces a difficult road ahead in rebuilding public trust. The ongoing debate comparing Zuma and Ramaphosa highlights a broader problem: whether the party can overhaul its governance strategy in time to recover its political dominance, or if it has entered a permanent era of coalition government.

https://x.com/azania1023/status/2118953217383874703

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