Zwelinzima Vavi, general secretary of the South African Federation of Trade Unions (SAFTU), has publicly criticized former President Jacob Zuma’s leadership, arguing that his time in office left the country in decline and created deep-rooted problems still felt today.
Vavi, who once supported Zuma in hopes of meaningful change for ordinary citizens, says he watched as conditions worsened under his presidency. He accuses Zuma of enabling widespread corruption and allowing government institutions to deteriorate, leaving lasting scars on South Africa’s governance.
Among the darkest moments of Zuma’s tenure was the 2012 Marikana massacre, where police shot and killed striking mineworkers. Vavi believes the government under Zuma failed both in protecting workers and in holding itself accountable for the tragedy.
He also pointed to recent disasters, such as the deaths of illegal miners in Stilfontein, as evidence that the government continues to neglect the poor and working class—a pattern he traces back to Zuma’s presidency.
Reflecting on his past support, Vavi now admits backing Zuma was a mistake, saying his leadership ultimately harmed the nation. He also expressed concern over Zuma’s political resurgence through the MK Party, warning that it could lead South Africa down a dangerous path.
Vavi urged voters to learn from history and choose leaders committed to rebuilding the country rather than repeating past failures. To him, Zuma’s presidency serves as a stark lesson in how poor leadership can cripple a nation long after leaving office.