Jacob Zuma

Jacob Zuma
Jacob Zuma in 2014
Born	Birth date -1st March 1966 Nkandla, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Nationality	South African
Occupation	Politician
Known for	President of South Africa (2009–2018)

Jacob Gedleyihlekisa Zuma (born 12 April 1942) is a South African politician who served as the fourth President of South Africa from 2009 to 2018. He is a member of the African National Congress (ANC) and has been involved in South African politics for several decades.

Early Life and Education

Jacob Zuma was born in Nkandla, a rural area in the province of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. He did not receive formal schooling and taught himself to read and write. Zuma became involved in politics at an early age, joining the ANC in 1959.

Political Career

Early Involvement

Zuma joined the ANC's armed wing, Umkhonto we Sizwe, in 1962. He was arrested in 1963 and sentenced to ten years' imprisonment on Robben Island, alongside other prominent anti-apartheid activists, including Nelson Mandela.

Rise in the ANC

After his release, Zuma continued his work with the ANC, eventually rising to prominent positions within the organization. He was elected Deputy Secretary-General of the ANC in 1991 and later became the Deputy President of South Africa in 1999 under President Thabo Mbeki.

Presidency

Zuma was elected President of the ANC in 2007, defeating Thabo Mbeki. He became President of South Africa in 2009 after the ANC won the general elections. His presidency was marked by significant controversy, including allegations of corruption and mismanagement.

Controversies

Zuma's presidency was marred by numerous scandals. He faced allegations of corruption, particularly related to the Nkandla homestead scandal, where public funds were used for upgrades to his private residence. He was also implicated in the Gupta family scandal, which involved accusations of "state capture" by the wealthy Gupta family.

Resignation

Under mounting pressure from the ANC and the public, Zuma resigned as President of South Africa on 14 February 2018. His resignation paved the way for his deputy, Cyril Ramaphosa, to assume the presidency.

Legal Issues

Following his presidency, Zuma faced numerous legal challenges, including charges of corruption, fraud, and money laundering. His legal battles continue to be a significant aspect of his post-presidency life.

Personal Life

Zuma is known for his polygamous lifestyle and has been married multiple times. He has numerous children and is a traditionalist in many aspects of his personal life.

Legacy

Jacob Zuma's legacy is a subject of debate. While some view him as a champion of the poor and a stalwart of the anti-apartheid struggle, others criticize his presidency for corruption and economic mismanagement.

Also see

• African National Congress
• Nelson Mandela
• Thabo Mbeki
• Cyril Ramaphosa
• Nkandla homestead scandal
• Gupta family