Dr. Naledi Pandor Reflects on Jacob Zuma’s Presidency: A Tale of Kindness and Challenges

Former International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Dr. Naledi Pandor, recently shared candid reflections on her political journey during a revealing conversation on Sizwe Mpofu-Walsh’s podcast, SNWX. Her insights offered a unique perspective on her experience serving under former President Jacob Zuma, a figure who remains both influential and controversial in South African politics.

Pandor painted a picture of Zuma as a leader who was both kind-hearted and approachable, a man who, despite the challenges he faced, remained engaging and well-read. “President Zuma was a lovely person, you know… He is very kind and engaging. But I think not fully engaged on the details of the issues, but he was well-read,” she remarked. This depiction challenges the often simplistic narratives surrounding Zuma, highlighting a side of him that many might not be familiar with.

She was particularly struck by his love for reading, noting that despite his lack of formal education, Zuma was an avid reader. “For someone whom they said did not complete primary school, he was a reader and I was often surprised… He was perhaps too kind and accommodating, and so, people took advantage,” Pandor said, suggesting that his generous nature may have been exploited by those around him.

Dr. Pandor’s respect for Zuma extended beyond his personal qualities. She described him as a leader who was always approachable, someone who made himself available to discuss and address problems. “You could go talk to him if you had a problem, and he would help to address it,” she said, highlighting a leadership style that was more personal and accessible than many might have expected.

However, Pandor’s time in government, particularly under Zuma’s leadership, was not without its challenges. She recalled her initial shock when Zuma appointed her to lead the Department of Home Affairs, a role that came with significant difficulties. “When he [Zuma] called me to his office and told me, I was like, what? Home Affairs? Me? And I was right to be horrified. It was difficult,” she admitted.

The challenges she faced were exacerbated by the pervasive corruption within the department, an issue that caused her great distress. “Corruption was the worst. Our own public servants were involved in selling documents of our country. Visas, IDs were being sold off. Home Affairs gave me grey hair,” Pandor shared, highlighting the deep-rooted issues that plagued the department during her tenure.

Dr. Pandor’s reflections also touched on her personal journey into politics, which was profoundly influenced by her family’s involvement in the anti-apartheid struggle. She credited her father as her greatest inspiration, a figure who shaped her understanding of politics and public service from an early age.

As a seasoned politician with a wealth of experience, Dr. Naledi Pandor’s reflections on her time under Jacob Zuma’s presidency offer a nuanced perspective on a leader often criticized for his shortcomings. Her words serve as a reminder that behind the headlines and controversies, there are complexities and personal stories that shape the legacy of South Africa’s leaders.