The repercussions of the administration’s cautious approach have become increasingly evident, with the ANC now contending with what some are dubbing an “opposition of a special type.” The reluctance to take a firm stand on Zuma’s actions has cast a shadow over the government’s credibility.
One notable instance of leniency was Ramaphosa’s pardon of Zuma, sparing the former president from a return to Estcourt prison in August. This decision, seen by many as treating Zuma with kid gloves, is emblematic of the broader pattern of hesitancy that characterises the government’s dealings with the ex-president.
Even Zuma’s lieutenant, Arthur Fraser, who facilitated Zuma’s release on medical parole, has not faced the consequences many expected. The Ramaphosa government’s apparent mollycoddling of figures closely associated with Zuma raises questions about its commitment to upholding the rule of law.
As the ANC grapples with the fallout from this “opposition of a special type,” it is becoming increasingly clear that years of pussyfooting around the ex-president have come back to haunt the ruling party. The price of indecision is now being paid, and the political landscape is witnessing the consequences of a failure to assertively address the challenges posed by Zuma’s presence in the political arena.
The coming months will likely test the administration’s ability to navigate the complexities of this situation and regain public trust. The Zuma saga serves as a stark reminder that in politics, indecision can be a costly gamble, with implications that resonate far beyond the corridors of power.