The party’s nine provincial branches made their nominations this weekend less than a month before the party chooses a new leader, who is expected to become the country’s next president in 2009.
South Africa’s media claim Zuma is way ahead of President Thabo Mbeki who is seeking a third term as leader of his party. Constitutionally, however, Mbeki will not be allowed to stand for a third term of office a the country’s president.
702 Talk Radio said that Zuma had won the nomination of five of the nine provinces while Mbeki captured only four. Branch nominations are said to be an important indicator of who may be ahead of the succession race but some analysts point to the possibility of unexpected turns if senior delegates disagree with branches in a secret ballot.
Zuma has been dogged by corruption allegations and charges but enjoys widespread support from the trade unions who have repeatedly criticised President Mbeki for his economic policies.
Analysts suggest that Zuma’s popularity and lead in the leadership race signals widespread opposition to President Mbeki’s leadership style and economic policies.Â
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