Accra – Former South African president Jacob Zuma has drawn criticism for comments made during his African tour, which political analysts say could disrupt the ANC’s diplomatic relations.
Zuma addressed students and guests at the University of Professional Studies Accra (UPSA) in Ghana on Tuesday, saying he left the ANC because it no longer represented the aspirations of indigenous South Africans. He accused the party of “selling out” the legacy of the nation’s ancestors and warned that external forces manipulate leaders for their own gain.
He also questioned the ANC’s stance on Morocco and Western Sahara, urging African countries to maintain unity against foreign influence. Zuma spoke in favour of strengthening East-African relations and criticised Western powers for their historic role in colonisation.
Political analyst Theo Neethling told The Citizen that Zuma’s statements risk creating diplomatic tension. “There is nothing wrong with former leaders travelling internationally, but the problem arises when they contradict official foreign policy or appear to speak on behalf of the country,” Neethling said. He added that Zuma’s comments seem designed to discredit the ANC and advance the interests of his MK party abroad.
Zuma’s recent trip to Morocco also sparked controversy after the South African flag was displayed at meetings, which his party defended as acceptable. The MK party confirmed Zuma will continue his tour to several African countries this year, including nations with strained relations with Pretoria.
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