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An embattled President Jacob Zuma has urged South Africans to give the country’s young democracy enough time to do its work, saying that a newborn does not become a full grown adult in one day.
Speaking to thousands of people at the Freedom Day celebration in Giyani, Limpopo, Zuma used the event to cosy up to supporters ahead of what may be the most hotly-contested elections since 1994.
He was firing on all cylinders from the beginning, leaving nothing to chance as he spoke of the great strides made by the ANC government with the provision of basic services including: water and sanitation, free basic education for the poor and decent healthcare.
As the ruling party battles to keep control of some major metros in the local goverment elections, Zuma urged the crowd: “Give us time. No child can be born in the morning and become an adult by the end of that day. That is against science and the laws of God.”
Places like KwaZulu-Natal have already seen an onslaught of violent attacks on local councillors and aspiring councillors as the race to the polls begins. Zuma reminded councillors that they are put in their positions to serve the people and not themselves.
As for those who may not have the stars – or a good track record – aligned for them, he urged them to humbly let go of their positions.
The president looked quite sombre upon his arrival but was soon seeing laughing with Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa ahead of his address. He did not however offer his trademark chuckle during the address.
The crowd of at least ten thousand cheered wildly when Zuma did a brief walkabout.
As Zuma spoke civil society groups led demonstrations around the country calling for Zuma to go.
A number of ministers and top ANC officials were also present in Giyani including Nomvula Mokonyane, Obed Bapela, Nathi Nhleko, Supra Mahumapelo, Susan Shabangu and Faith Muthambi.
Zuma also paid tribute to slain heroes of the struggle who died in the month of April including: Oliver Tambo, Chris Hani and Solomon Mahlangu.
Today marks 22 years since South Africans took to the polls for the first democratic elections.
