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As soon as the news broke on Wednesday evening that President Jacob Zuma had sacked Nhlanhla Nene as his finance minister and appointed an unknown in his place, Twitter was abuzz.
The hashtag #ZumaMustFall gained momentum as the ANC and the presidency remained mum, and as the rand tumbled to record lows.
On social media, radio stations and TV shows, citizens voiced their dissatisfaction with President Zuma. This is what some plan to do about it: Petition
Brent Lindeque started his petition on Thursday at change.org, which citizens can sign for President Zuma to step down.
By Saturday afternoon, the petition had been signed by more than 105 000 people.
“It’s simple ... lead or step down. And, unfortunately, Jacob Zuma cannot lead. His continuous actions and decisions are ruining South Africa. Our unemployment has never been higher. Crime and corruption have become a standard. Government is pillaging our taxes and our economy is at a tipping point. We need change,” reads the petition.
March
A peaceful and silent #ZumaMustFall protest march will be held at the Union Buildings at 10am on Wednesday.
“People have expressed an interest in gathering at the Union Buildings in Pretoria and peacefully marking their dissatisfaction with a president who does not care about them.
“If you choose to rally your community and make your way there on Wednesday, that is your choice, and nothing can stop you,” reads the note on the countdown website.
The event was created on Facebook on Thursday and by Saturday at 3.30pm, 16 000 people had confirmed their attendance. A further 13 000 said they might attend.
Facebook user Sir-Mosimanekago Mokae was listed as the creator of the event. Facebook user Thandi Nethate wrote: “Tired of sitting waiting for change ... While Zuma keeps messing up time and again.”
Letters
The Helen Suzman Foundation has written to the president, asking him to tell the country why he dismissed Nene.
“Joining our fellow South Africans, we shall keep asking until we have an answer. Our constitutional democracy requires no less,” wrote foundation director Francis Antonie.
The foundation is encouraging citizens to write to the presidency at president@presidency.gov.za.
