Former presidential spokesperson Mac Maharaj has delivered a damning assessment of Jacob Zuma’s presidency, labeling it a “disaster” for South Africa. Maharaj, who served as Zuma’s spokesperson from 2009 to 2015, sharply criticized his former boss’s leadership, blaming the era’s decisions for many of the country’s current crises.
A veteran of the anti-apartheid struggle and former transport minister, Maharaj accused Zuma’s government of rampant corruption, incompetence, and a blatant disregard for governance principles. He pointed to the escalation of state capture as a defining failure of Zuma’s rule. “The country was essentially hijacked by private interests, with public institutions repurposed for personal gain,” Maharaj stated.
He also highlighted the erosion of key state entities, including law enforcement and state-owned enterprises. Scandals at Transnet and South African Airways, along with Eskom’s collapse and the ensuing load-shedding crisis, were direct results of Zuma’s mismanagement, Maharaj argued.
Zuma remains a polarizing figure in South African politics. While his supporters view him as a victim of political persecution, critics hold him responsible for the nation’s economic and institutional decline. His recent political comeback—leading the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party in a bid to challenge the ANC—has reignited debates about his legacy.
Reflecting on his time in Zuma’s administration, Maharaj admitted there were initial hopes for progress, but these were quickly overshadowed by systemic corruption and governance failures. “The damage inflicted during that period still haunts us today,” he said.
As the ANC works to rebuild its credibility under President Cyril Ramaphosa—through anti-corruption measures and efforts to lure back investors—Zuma’s shadow lingers over South Africa’s political landscape. Maharaj’s remarks add to growing calls for accountability and serve as a stark reminder of the need to confront past mistakes, especially as the country approaches a pivotal election.