Jacob Zuma Sworn In as South African Prez

South Africans left guessing which Zuma wife will be first lady

(NEWSER) - South Africa's polygamous president-elect has confounded media speculation by inviting all three of his wives to his inauguration tomorrow, the BBC reports. Many had hoped the event would signal which wife would become the official first lady. Jacob Zuma has also invited his 19 children. It's uncertain whether all three wives would be standing by Zuma's side when he is sworn in. More»

S. Africa leader warns against violence after killing

(NEWSER) - South African President Jacob Zuma appealed for calm yesterday as growing racial tensions in South Africa sparked fears of violence in the wake of the killing of white supremacist Eugene Terreblanche. Zuma called the murder a "terrible deed" and urged South Africans not to fall prey to "agent provacateurs" inciting racial hatred, the Guardian reported. More»

South African President Needs Help, Says Disgusted Critic

(NEWSER) - Man-of-many-wives South African President Jacob Zuma is a "sex addict" who needs treatment like Tiger Woods, said a disgusted member of parliament after Zuma had his 20th child. The baby was born outside a generous wedlock that includes three wives (and another on the way). Zuma is coming under harsh criticism in a nation battling an AIDS and HIV epidemic, but his ruling party is defending him. "There is nothing 'shameful' when two adults have a relationship," said African National Congress spokesman Jackson Mthembu. More»

(NEWSER) - The South African parliament elected Jacob Zuma president today, and the country’s new leader will be inaugurated on Saturday, Reuters reports. Zuma’s ANC routed the opposition in last month’s election, and today’s election was expected. The new president will name a cabinet on Sunday; international watchers hope that respected Finance Minister Trevor Manuel will stay on to provide continuity. More»

Zuma has two wives and a fiancée, but only one can have the title

(NEWSER) - In a few days Jacob Zuma will become president of South Africa—but who will become the country's first lady is less certain. The African National Congress leader, who has two wives and a fiancée, will be the first avowed polygamist to serve as the country's head of state. Yet as the Wall Street Journal reports, protocol means that only one wife can be first lady and get the perks that come with the office. More»