ANC Elects Zuma as Leader

Controversial figure now in line to be S. Africa's president

By Kevin Langbaum, Newser User

Posted Dec 18, 2007 6:41 PM CST

(Newser) – Jacob Zuma is in line to become president of South Africa in 2009 after the country’s ruling party elected him leader today, Reuters reports. The beloved but controversial populist won easily over current President Thabo Mbeki, bringing jubilation from his supporters but raising questions about the country’s economic future, rifts within the ANC, and Mbeki’s remaining time in office.

Zuma has remained popular despite looming bribery charges and his acquittal in a rape case last year. He steadily gained momentum over Mbeki, who was viewed as not doing enough to help poor blacks. As a lame duck president, Mbeki, who took over leadership of the ANC from Nelson Mandela in 1997, could end up stepping down before his term is up.

ANC delegates react at the announcement of former deputy president Jacob Zuma's victory against South African President Thabo Mbeki to lead the party, on the third day of the African National Congress... (Associated Press)

Former ANC deputy president Jacob Zuma reacts to being elected ANC president against South African President Thabo Mbeki to lead the party, on the third day of the African National Congress conference... (Associated Press)

Former ANC deputy president Jacob Zuma, right, is congratulated by South Africa President Thabo Mbeki after winning the ballot to become ANC president and lead the party, on the third day of the African... (Associated Press)

Sweat drips from South Africa President Thabo Mbeki's head as he looks at former ANC deputy president Jacob Zuma before the announcement of the results in the race for the party's presidency, on the... (Associated Press)

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ANC Elects Zuma as Leader

Controversial figure now in line to be S. Africa's president

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OTHER STORIES ON OUR RADAR

South Africa • Thabo Mbeki • Nelson Mandela • Jacob Zuma • African National Congress • South African elections

MOST POPULAR STORIES

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Interim Prez Takes Reins in South Africa

Motlanthe viewed as able to ease tensions within ruling party

ANC Misses Two-Thirds Majority

Final results clear the way for Zuma presidency

Zuma Poised for Victory in South Africa

ANC wins big majority, but final result remains unclear

Record Turnout Predicted as South Africa Votes

Zuma heads for victory, but ANC may lose support

Zuma Coasting to South African Presidency

Landslide predicted for ANC, but could lose parliamentary majority

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