Rough economy threatens Zuma's promises for SAfrica
Jacob Zuma led his African National Congress to election victory with sweeping promises to help the nation's poor, but will enter office with little room to manoeuvre due to a faltering economy.
The campaign promises coupled with his easy charisma have endeared Zuma to millions and delivered the ANC a 66 percent majority in last week's elections, giving him ample political capital with 264 of the 400 seats in parliament.
That makes the 67-year-old ANC leader certain to become president when parliament convenes on May 6 to elect the head of state, with the inauguration set for three days later.
But he will have to overcome the doubts of his critics, who point to a litany of corruption allegations and verbal blunders that have made him a reviled figure for many.
"The new president of the republic will be a president for all, and he will work to unite the country," Zuma said when declaring victory late Saturday.
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