Anti-Zuma protests returns as political parties stage demonstrations

Protests against incumbent South African leader Jacob Zuma has resurfaced with thousands of demonstrators gathering in the streets of Pretoria demanding his resignation.

Reports say the demonstrations which saw protesters march to Union Buildings, the official seat of government, was organised by a coalition of opposition parties following nationwide rallies against Zuma last week.

Zuma’s recent dismissal of Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan also stoked public anger over government corruption scandals, record unemployment and slowing economic growth.

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Al Jazeera’s Fahmida Miller, reporting from Pretoria, said the opposition parties show unprecedented unity in coming together for the protests.

“Last week’s protests were organised by the civil society and religous groups. But now we have at least seven political parties who have come together and want Zuma to go,” she said.

Miller also added that; “The message is clear. They want him to go because they say he’s bad for the economy and believe these protests could lead to Zuma stepping down.”

 

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