South Africa’s Former President Jacob Zuma Escapes Unhurt in Car Crash
In a harrowing incident, former South African President Jacob Zuma narrowly escaped unscathed after a drunk driver crashed into his official armored state vehicle. The collision occurred on Thursday evening, leaving many questioning whether it was a deliberate attack on the controversial politician.
Accompanied by his official protection team, Zuma was traveling in his home province of KwaZulu-Natal when the crash occurred at approximately 18:40 local time. Despite the impact, no injuries were reported, and Zuma was promptly evacuated to his residence by the Presidential Protection Services.
The driver responsible for the crash, a 51-year-old man, has been arrested on charges of drunken driving, as well as reckless and negligent driving. However, Musa Mkhize, the head of elections for Zuma’s uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK) party, believes that the incident was not accidental but a deliberate attempt to harm the former president.
At 81 years old, Zuma’s political career has been marred by corruption allegations, leading to his resignation as president in 2018. Despite facing legal challenges, Zuma remains a significant figure in South African politics, particularly in KwaZulu-Natal, where his influence could sway the upcoming general election in May.
The timing of the crash coincides with the electoral commission’s decision to bar Zuma from running as a candidate in the upcoming election, citing a previous jail sentence for contempt of court as grounds for disqualification. With the African National Congress (ANC) facing potential losses in the polls, the emergence of the MK party could further disrupt the political landscape.
As tensions rise and uncertainty looms over the election outcome, Zuma’s narrow escape serves as a stark reminder of the high stakes involved in South Africa’s political arena. With the ANC’s dominance challenged, the country braces for a turbulent electoral season. – BBC
