South African Presidential Inauguration

African National Congress leader Jacob Zuma was sworn-in as South Africa’s new president. The 67-year-old leader took the oath of office in front of 5,000 guests and more than 30 heads of states in the executive capital city of Pretoria. In his inaugural speech, he praised his predecessors and said the foundation of the South African economy was strong, despite the difficulties of the global economy.

Then McClatchy Newspaper Africa Correspondent Shashank Bengali reported by telephone about South African politics. Topics included: the Zuma presidency, corruption charges that were dropped against Mr. Zuma, the history and influence of the African National Congress, and South Africa’s relationship with the U.S. Mr. Bengali also talked about President Zuma being the first South African president to practice polygamy. President Zuma is reported to have three wives and 19 children. close