28 May 2017 | 04:12 PM UTC
South Africa: ANC announces motion to remove Jacob Zuma
South African ruling party, ANC, debates fate of president during party meeting
Event
Multiple media sources have reported that South African president, Jacob Zuma, has been pressured to resign by ruling party, African National Congress Party (ANC). On Saturday, May 27, opponents proposed a motion of no confidence against Zuma at an ANC party meeting. Many in the party allegedly attribute the ANC's poor performance in local elections to scandals surrounding Zuma.
Demonstrations throughout South Africa are possible as a result of the proposal.
Context
The ANC has been South Africa's ruling party since 1994. Jacob Zuma has survived a previous attempt to oust him at an ANC meeting in November 2016, however unease over Zuma has grown after he fired Pravin Gordhan, the former finance minister, in a cabinet reshuffle in March 2017.
Advice
Individuals throughout South Africa are advised to monitor the situation, to anticipate potential transportation disruptions, and to avoid all demonstrations due to the risk of violence.
On a separate note, individuals in the country - particularly in urban areas - are advised to be on guard against high levels of criminal activity and to maintain a low profile at all times. Be particularly vigilant after dusk and avoid traveling on foot after nightfall. Criminals may be armed; do not resist if confronted and do not look your attacker(s) directly in the eye. Drive with windows closed, doors locked, and all personal possessions hidden from sight.
