‘I wasn’t born with a silver s

Duduzane Zuma is grilled by the BBC’s Milton Nkosi (BBC News)

‘I wasn’t born with a silver spoon in my mouth’ – Duduzane Zuma

He’s enjoyed a shortcut to the highest echelons of business. But no, Duduzane’s ‘not privileged’…

‘I wasn’t born with a silver s

Duduzane Zuma is grilled by the BBC’s Milton Nkosi (BBC News)

You read that right: The actual son of a president doesn’t feel he was born into privilege. Oh Duduzane, are you absolutely sure about that?

Zuma Jnr opened up in an interview with the BBC, where he talked about his business ventures and dealings with the Guptas. In a frank exchange with the Focus on Africa presenter, he dealt with allegations of corruption and bribery too.

He was put on the spot by Milton Nkosi, yet it really does seem like the apple hasn’t fallen far from the tree. Duduzane expertly stonewalled many on the questions, keeping his answers brief and succinct.

Duduzane Zuma on why the Guptas want to work with him:

  • “I think I’m a likeable guy. There’s nothing untoward about it. There’s no unpacking the relationship and what was in it for them, what was in it for me.”

On Mcebisi Jonas being offered a bribe:

  • Mr Jonas was not offered a bribe by the Guptas. I did meet them. I was present. There was no such thing that took part.

On Jacob Zuma’s rumoured Dubai properties:

  • “My father owns a house. It’s in Nkandla. His area is called Nkandla. It’s in northern KwaZulu-Natal. In Dubai he does not own any property whatsoever.”

When asked if the Guptas wanted anything from him due to his status, Duduzane denied he was being used:

“I look back and I think I’m glad I met these guys, and I’m glad we are where we are today. I’m not born with a silver spoon in my mouth. It is something I have had to work for.”

“The decision I took to partner with the brothers, the Gupta family, it is a decision that I took that I don’t regret. I’m super happy with it.”

Duduzane Zuma talks to the BBC

Of course he’s ‘super happy’ with his Gupta-made business lifestyle. He’s had preferential treatment ever since his father began running for president.

Aged just 26, The Indian billionaire’s company Sahara Computers appointed Duduzane to their board. Zuma Jnr had an extremely limited experience with IT, but took an executive post back in 2008 thanks to his cosy relationship with the Guptas.

Apparently, that doesn’t constitute having a ‘silver spoon’ in your mouth. Poor lad, life’s been so incredibly tough for him…