By Buziwe Nocuze
Umkhonto Wesizwe party (MK) leader Jacob Zuma took his charm offensive to Cape Town at the weekend, where he promised to end crime and create jobs.
Speaking at a packed Shekinah Healing Ministries church in Philippi East, Cape Town, Zuma promised to end crime, poverty and unemployment.
“We got freedom but the reality is that we are not free; we have nothing to show other than being poor and oppressed,” said Zuma.
He promised to allow parents to raise their children the way they chose to.
“The current government gave kids phone numbers to call when they are being disciplined by their parents, but if you vote for our party we will end that, we will allow parents to raise their children the way they want. Discipline never killed anyone — if it had, we wouldn’t be here today,” said Zuma.
Zuma said black people are still oppressed.
“If we were not oppressed, I wouldn’t have gone to jail for so many months.”
He said he chose to take part in this year’s election because he was tired of seeing people oppressed.
“We need to win the election, and the only way to achieve that is for you to stop voting for your friends even though you know that they are not bringing change or making your lives better. Use your votes wisely,” said Zuma.
Outside the church building, MK volunteers were recruiting people to join the party.
Luyanda Nyembana said he felt sorry that Zuma, at the age of 81, had to come out of retirement to go on the campaign trail.
“He looks old, I don’t know why but I felt sorry looking at him. He is supposed to be at home because politics is a dirty game and I don’t think it will be good at his age,” said Luyanda.
Another resident said Zuma had his chance and he didn’t do anything for them.
“In my opinion, he is just like all other political leaders. He had his chance and what did he do? Why would we vote for the former president who had all the time to make the change but failed?”
Pictured above: MK leader Jacob Zuma visited the Shekinah Healing Ministries, urging the congregants to give his party a chance.
Image source: Buziwe Nocuze
