Former President Jacob Zuma has sparked new controversy by comparing a politician accused of corruption to former spy boss Arthur Fraser. Zuma made the comments during a speech to supporters of his MK Party over the weekend.
Zuma defended Bheki Mkhwanazi, a KwaZulu-Natal politician facing corruption allegations, calling him a “victim of political targeting.” He drew a parallel to Arthur Fraser, the official who revealed the Phala Phala farm scandal involving President Cyril Ramaphosa. Zuma praised Fraser as a “courageous whistleblower.”
“They vilify Mkhwanazi today the same way they tried to silence Arthur Fraser,” Zuma told the crowd.
Zuma also launched a strong attack on President Ramaphosa and Public Service Minister Senzo Mchunu. He accused Ramaphosa of using state institutions to attack his opponents and protect his allies. He further accused Minister Mchunu of failing public servants and betraying the values of the African National Congress (ANC).
Political analysts see Zuma’s comments as a strategic move to position his MK Party as an alternative ahead of the 2026 elections. By defending controversial figures, he aims to portray Ramaphosa’s administration as hypocritical and abusive of power.
The ANC declined to comment on Zuma’s specific remarks, stating it would not be distracted by rhetoric from breakaway parties. The Presidency dismissed Zuma’s claims as baseless, reiterating that President Ramaphosa respects the independence of state institutions.
Zuma’s continued public criticisms ensure he remains a significant figure in South African politics and highlight the deepening political divisions ahead of the next national election.