Zuma Says South Africans Feel Like “Slaves” After Elections

MK Party president Jacob Zuma has sparked debate after claiming that many South Africans feel like slaves in their own country, despite the country having achieved political freedom.

Zuma made the remarks during a media briefing held on Friday at the Independent Electoral Commission’s Provincial Results Operations Centre at the Durban International Convention Centre, as votes from the 2026 Local Government Elections were still being counted.

Speaking about the political situation in the country, the former president suggested that many citizens continue to experience powerlessness and believe they have little control over their own circumstances.

He argued that these feelings are reflected in the way people vote, saying South Africans have failed to unite behind one political movement to secure political power.

According to Zuma, indigenous South Africans continue to divide their votes among different political parties, which he described as a weakness after years of struggle for liberation.

His comments are consistent with his previous statements that the country’s liberation process remains incomplete. In recent weeks, Zuma has repeatedly called on his supporters to reclaim the country and its land, particularly through local government structures.

The remarks come as the MK Party records strong performances in KwaZulu-Natal, with preliminary election results showing significant support in several areas, including eThekwini.

During the briefing, Zuma and other party leaders also discussed possible coalition arrangements, maintaining that the party is prepared to work with other political organisations if such partnerships benefit ordinary citizens.

While his supporters believe his comments reflect ongoing unemployment, poverty, inequality and poor service delivery, political opponents may view his slavery comparison as divisive.

His remarks have once again reignited debate about whether political freedom has translated into meaningful economic freedom for ordinary South Africans.

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