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
ANC Elects Zuma as Leader
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 conference in Polokwane, South Africa, Tuesday, Dec. 18, 2007. Zuma beat Mbeki with 2329 votes against...   (Associated Press)

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. (More South African elections stories.)

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