The African National Congress (ANC) is witnessing a notable shift as veteran leader Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma re-emerges as a key influence within the party. Once sidelined during her bid for the ANC presidency, she is now being approached by former critics seeking her counsel—and in some cases, forgiveness.
Her prominent presence at a recent ANC National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting signaled this changing dynamic. Dressed in a striking blue headwrap and yellow-and-black shawl, she sat among top party officials, reinforcing her enduring stature in the organization.
After years of lower visibility—partly due to her association with former president Jacob Zuma—Dlamini-Zuma is reasserting her political legacy. The ANC’s renewed interest in her is seen as a recognition of her deep institutional knowledge, particularly as the party grapples with internal divisions and future strategy. Her decades of ministerial experience make her a sought-after voice at a critical time.
The outreach to Dlamini-Zuma has sparked debate over whether it reflects genuine reconciliation or political maneuvering ahead of pivotal elections. While some welcome her return as a stabilizing force, others remain skeptical, recalling past instances of exclusion and shifting loyalties within the ANC.
Regardless of the motives, her resurgence underscores the enduring value of experience in South Africa’s evolving political landscape—proving that even after setbacks, seasoned leaders can still shape the future.