SA to leave recession ‘quicker than we believe’- Zuma

File: President Jacob Zuma said the economy would come out of recession “quicker than we believe”. Photo: Reuters / Mike Hutchings

It was his first public comments since data showed Africa’s most industrialised economy was struggling.

The country sank into recession for the first time in eight years in the first quarter, hit by weakness in consumer sectors such as wholesale, retail and accommodation.

Asked by a lawmaker why he should still be in office given the economic woes and personal scandals, Zuma said he was elected by the people.

Zuma also said a secret ballot in Parliament in a motion of no-confidence against him would not be fair as it was meant to help the opposition parties garner a majority they do not have.

A secret ballot is seen by Zuma’s critics as emboldening lawmakers from his own party to support his ouster by shielding them from pressure.

“I see no convincing reason why we should change… You are trying to get a majority you don’t have by saying secret ballot.

“I think it is not fair because you are trying to increase the majority you don’t have,” Zuma said.

Reuters

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