Jacob Zuma addresses supporters during the People’s Mandate Launch at Orlando Stadium in Soweto on May 18, 2024. Image: Phill Magakoe / AFPJacob Zuma addresses supporters during the People’s Mandate Launch at Orlando Stadium in Soweto on May 18, 2024. Image: Phill Magakoe / AFP“When we reach the final destination nobody will be poor, or unemployed, we are going to be doing things for all of us,” the 82-year-old declared to cheers.
But he left office under the shadow of a corruption probe and was jailed in 2021 for contempt of court, a decision that triggered a wave of riots that left 350 people dead. There are concerns that if Jacob Zuma, still popular with many of his fellow Zulus, is declared ineligible at this late stage there may be another round of unrest.But the party, named after the ANC’s armed wing during the anti-apartheid struggle, will remain on the ballot and could cut into Ramaphosa’s vote.
Crowds had begun gathering at 08:00 and by 15:30, when Zuma finally began to lead them in song, the 36 000 capacity arena was packed.