Jacob Zuma has shown disdain for the media during his fiercely contested campaign for the highest seat of office. The ANC has frequently accused elements within the media of fomenting a campaign against him. He has lawsuits pending against media commentators for speaking their minds.
Now, after the changing of the guard yesterday, a new era has dawned. Already in the build-up to Zuma's big day, there appeared to be less criticism raised about his suitability for the top job in the land. A debate has even raged about whether cartoonist Zapiro should drop the shower head used to poke fun at Zuma over his shocking comments about HIV-Aids.
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This softly-softly approach comes as South Africans gather in the wake of the country's fourth general elections. For our young democracy, this is a momentous occasion, and something to celebrate.
Some of Zuma's harshest critics are holding their tongues, giving the controversial leader space to settle in and prove the sceptics wrong.
Expectations are high. The Economist had a cover story, urging "Africa's next Big Man" to use his greatness to protect the country's constitution and build on democracy.
Picking up the theme, Zuma critic Colleen Lowe Morna, executive director of Gender Links, pleads with him to not abuse his power but to use it to create opportunities for women in South Africa.
The world is watching to see if Zuma is capable of living up to his pledges and putting the country first. He will also be under pressure to ensure his supporters stop the blame game and not try to seek revenge.
And the media will be watching. We will not pre-judge him. If he triumphs, we will make a noise. But if he messes up, we will not protect him. We will treat him fairly, without fear or favour. This is the duty of a free media. Hopefully, as leader of our fledgling democracy, the new president understands that.
- This article was originally published on page 20 of Cape Argus on May 10, 2009
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