ANC Suspends Former President Jacob Zuma Following Rival Party Launch

South Africa's former President Jacob Zuma has been suspended by the African National Congress (ANC) after refusing to vote for them and launching his own party. The ANC, which Zuma used to lead, made the announcement on Monday. Zuma's new party, named uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK) meaning "spear of the nation," shares a name with the ANC's former armed wing in which he served. Zuma's nine-year presidency was marred by numerous scandals, including major corruption allegations. An official inquiry found him guilty of placing the interests of corrupt associates above the country's welfare in a process known as "state capture." Additionally, he faces corruption charges related to a 1999 arms deal, although he denies any wrongdoing. The current President Cyril Ramaphosa replaced Zuma in 2018 with promises to address government corruption. However, Zuma has launched personal attacks against his successor. While many South Africans view Zuma as symbolic of the country's troubled past, he still maintains a significant amount of support. The ANC, rooted in the struggle against apartheid, has been in power since the end of white-minority rule. The upcoming general election is expected to be the most competitive since the ANC took power in 1994.