Jacob Zuma Tax

Photo: Gallo Images/Volksblad/Mlungisi Louw

WATCH: ‘Vote for ANC,’ Jacob Zuma urges in video message

Former ANC president Jacob Zuma acknowledges he isn’t happy with certain things within the party, but encourages people to vote nonetheless

Jacob Zuma Tax

Photo: Gallo Images/Volksblad/Mlungisi Louw

In what some may consider an unexpected move, former African National Congress (ANC) president Jacob Zuma has spoken for the first time since being released on medical parole and has called on South Africans to vote for the governing party in the local government elections, which are scheduled to take place on 1 November 2021.

Zuma was speaking on a video released his by own foundation on Tuesday afternoon, 5 October 2021.

He recently returned to Nkandla after being imprisoned at the Estcourt Correctional Centre for violating an order by the Constitutional Court.

WATCH: Zuma wants you to vote ANC

In the clip, former president Jacob Zuma expresses concern over some voters who are opting not to take part in the municipal elections, citing various reasons.

“This really touched me and I thought I should share my views by asking those who are saying this to say let’s all stand up and vote, and vote more especially for the organisation that brought us freedom – the ANC,” Zuma says.

The ANC’s endorsement by one of its most controversial figures comes as a surprise as the strained relationship between the party and Zuma had raised questions as to whether he would even take part in campaigning ahead of the local polls. It is no secret that Zuma is not happy with some ANC members, particularly in the top six (with the exception of suspended secretary-general Ace Magashule).

In the video, Zuma also acknowledges there are unresolved issues between himself and the party, but encouraged people to vote nonetheless.

“It is of paramount importance for us to do that (voting for the ANC). Maybe I also have some reservations about certain issues, but I will vote. If we don’t vote we will find ourselves without a voice in the country’s affairs, without any power to change the people’s lives. I am pleading with you to rethink that, please vote,” Zuma said.