By Ahmed Osumanu Halid, Nima 441.
Jacob Zuma (JZ) was once the vice President and later the President of South Africa after succeeding Thabo Mbeki.
He was the commander in Chief of South Africa Army Forces. The nation’s first gentleman.
He had the power to appoint Ministers and their Deputies and sack them too. He appointed the various envoys of his country to other countries’, duty posts.
He appointed the service commanders and other head of security institutions.
He was given all the security protection. He really enjoyed his presidency.
His African National Congress supporters backed him to the apogee.
Jacob Zuma was a toast of his party. The supporters loved him because he was seen as the grassroot politician and leader unlike his predecessor Thabo Mbeki, who was seen as an elite.
Today, Jacob Zuma is not a president, he doesn’t have any power to do any appointment, he can’t control the security. He is just a former President. That is the only title he enjoys. Indeed, position is not possession.
Jacob Zuma is currently a convicted prisoner. He disrespected the court and the court enforced the law.
The rule of law has no respecter of persons. Jacob Zuma unfortunately, is a victim of the law enforcement. He is suffering from his arrogance to law.
The court had been lenient on him. He was given many opportunities to appear before the court to answer questions relating to a corruption charge against him and he declined.
I am sure, he is not aware how powerful judges are especially when it comes to the interpretation and adjudication of the law. They own the laws especially their interpretation.
When everyone thought JZ would escape the shackle of the law because of his former status, no he couldn’t. He was caught by it, the law.
Today, in our beloved country Ghana, some politicians are in court standing trial in various alleged corruption charges.
It is my prayer that the Judiciary will demonstrate fairness, neutrality and impartiality and give us judgements that will stand the test of time.
I pray that the coming into office of a new Special Prosecutor, all corruption matters will be investigated and prosecuted not only against politicians but every citizen or non-citizen who breaches our law relating to corruption or any abuse of office.
To my foot soldiers, decline the temptation of being bused to court to ‘ support ‘ alleged corrupt offenders. It is not right and such actions should be discarded.
Where are their relations or children?
Back to JZ. The reaction of his so-called supporters was appalling and disgusting.
Those in office today: Executive, Legislature and Judiciary and other civil servants, be warned and should learn some lessons from what is happening to Jacob Zuma and other Ghanaians who are standing trial for their stewardship.
Serving the people doesn’t mean one should illegally amass wealth to the detriment of the country.
The law will actually catch up with you one day.
No matter the journey, the destination awaits the traveller.
