“Zuma Should Focus On Advising The ANC As An Elder” (Video)
President Cyril Ramaphosa said the release of Jacob Zuma from prison was a “great relief” for the African National Congress (ANC).
This comes after the Department of Corrections (DCS) confirmed on Friday that the former president’s prison sentence had expired.
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“All of us are relieved and pleased that Jacob Zuma’s connection with the prison service is over”, Ramaphosa said while trying to hide a smirk.
“We are very pleased that that chapter is behind us; now we can move forward”, he told eNCA on Saturday.
When asked about Zuma’s intention to run for ANC chairperson at the December elective conference, Ramaphosa cited Zuma’s age as a concern.
He stated that as an ANC member, Zuma “can stand for any position, but at 80 years old, it’s another issue one needs to look at.”
Because Zuma is “rather advanced in years,” Ramaphosa believes he is better suited to the “key role of an elder, giving advice to the ANC.”
“That would be a wonderful role”, Ramaphosa concluded.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has welcomed the end of his predecessor, Jacob Zuma’s, 15-month prison sentence. When questioned about Zuma’s interest in contesting the ANC’s chairperson position at the December elective conference, Ramaphosa said his age is a concern. #Today #DStv403 pic.twitter.com/rnvE1YAe9z
— eNCA (@eNCA) October 8, 2022
Meanwhile, current ANC chairperson Gwede Mantashe has stated that Zuma is too old for the responsibilities of the party’s chairmanship.
“I think he is a bit old for that. Leave that, branches are working, leave it to the branches, don’t ask us. All of us are available, but if branches don’t nominate us, we’re not available”, said Mantashe.
