Opinion

It saddens me to see a man of such high stature as Jacob Zuma ridiculing himself and all those who flock around him.

He might have been acquitted on rape charges and be facing fraud charges, but his sense of humour still appeals to the hearts of those who favour him, despite his faults.

He is human, therefore bound to make mistakes — we would have said so of an ordinary individual, but Zuma is no ordinary individual. He is a leader, a public figure and a hero to thousands of people.

He can bring the African National Congress (ANC) to its knees, but he can also mend the cracks becoming more visible in the party.

As a concerned South African who values the freedom that came with the ANC-led government, I humbly request that if it comes to a push, Msholozi should bow out in dignity and allow those who respect him to retain such respect.

What has been happening, and is still happening, outside the courts each time he appears ridicules our justice system. Instead of portraying solidarity, it shows a bunch of individuals who lack faith in the judgments of our courts.

The law says Zuma is innocent until proven guilty and if his supporters believe that, then they need to save their energy for the time that warrants activism.

The same people can restore dignity to the man.

Former US President Bill Clinton had his own skeletons, but he is still respected.

Why?

Because he accepted he was a mere mortal bound to make mistakes like everybody else.

The country knows Zuma has done a lot and his contribution will be forever remembered.

With acknowledgement to P Khanyile and Business Day.