Naomi Campbell Slams Jacob Zuma
In a lengthy Instagram letter iconic supermodel Naomi Campbell criticised Jacob Zuma for the civil unrest and looting that recently occurred under his name.
Naomi expressing her opinion on the country’s troubling status is hardly surprising. She’s always displayed her love for South Africa and her close relationship with Nelson Mandela is widely known. She began her letter by listing the country’s achievements in the past.
“The South Africa that overcame Apartheid, showed the world that change was possible. Led the battle in the fight against HIV/AIDS and has weathered countless efforts to undermine the new South Africa,” she said.
She then went on to outline Zuma’s behaviour and actions in relation to corruption and state capture.
“I have watched how over the last few years you have protested your innocence at the allegations tabled against you of corruption and allowing mass State Capture,” said the iconic supermodel.
“I have seen you got out of your way to avoid having to deal with these matters in court and avoid a Commission setup to investigate State Capture.”
“You have talked of the rule of law and the South African constitution being something that should apply to everyone. Yet you defied the courts and were sentenced 15 months in prison.”
The Mzansi-loving supermodel went on about the effects that the looting will have on South Africa.
“Now upon your incarceration, a group of protests under the #Freezuma banner broke out igniting the worst violence and criminality South Africa has seen since the end of apartheid,” she said.
“These actions not only saw hundreds lose their lives and property be destroyed. But it affects will now be felt by many millions more.”
In closing, she made demands for Zuma to take action through responsibility.
“If you still consider yourself a leader then please act and take responsibility like one … Agree to finish your appearance in front of the State Capture commission and equally you will have your days in court to contest the corruption charges alleged against you. . . Put the Nation first PEACE IN SOUTH AFRICA”
Personally, we think Naomi is a true queen for speaking out against Jacob Zuma and the recent acts of violence in the country. South Africans, on the other hand, had a mixed bag of opinions on the matter.
In particular, Zuma’s daughter, Jabu Zuma clapped back at the supermodel by denying that her father was evading the state capture commission and by telling her that she was not qualified to speak on these matters.
“What you remember SA to be is not and has never been a reflection of the true SA. If you had actually been watching president Zuma over the last few years, as you claim, you will be well aware of the fact that all he has ever called for was a fair trial. He has been more than willing to stand in front of a court and prove his innocence … Zondo recuses himself, Zuma goes to the commission. Simple,” Jabu said.
“You’re simply not qualified and must be deluded to say you could ever [make recommendations on what Zuma should do],” Jabu concluded.
Here are some other responses from social media.