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Johannesburg. — President Jacob Zuma’s willingness to reconsider his decision to appoint David van Rooyen as finance minister demonstrated “bold leadership”, the ANC said yesterday. “The president’s willingness to change deployment . . . demonstrated bold leadership bringing certainty and (assurance) to the finance portfolio,” deputy secretary general Jessie Duarte told reporters in Johannesburg.
She was giving feedback on a national working committee of the African National Congress, squashing rumours on social media that Zuma had been recalled as president.
ANC spokesperson Zizi Kodwa said a number of hoax statements had been doing the rounds, saying Zuma had been recalled. Zuma sacked Nhlanhla Nene last week and appointed Van Rooyen as finance minister, but then after an outcry — both publicly and from within the ANC — removed Van Rooyen on Sunday and appointed Pravin Gordhan as the new finance minister.
Meanwhile, Christmas came early for elderly citizens of Lodewyk P Spies Home in Pretoria on Tuesday when Zuma handed over gifts during a visit. Zuma was visiting the old age home in Eersterust for the second time this year.
Addressing a packed hall, Zuma said he had fulfilled his promises to refurbish the home and ensure it had standard equipment which the elderly needed. The social development department had pledged its support for the home’s 96 elderly residents.
It had delivered linen and office furniture, installed water basins, painted the home and replaced broken fixtures. The leaking roof was also fixed and a wall was erected for security.
“During my visit nine months ago, we also committed to assist some older citizens to narrate their stories which have been published (in a booklet),” said Zuma. Eight stories of people from the centre were included.
Resident Alice Ndhlovu said she was overjoyed to see the president. She felt happy that Zuma had fulfilled his promise to the home and said she would vote for the African National Congress in the next local government elections. — News24
Online Reporter