South African newspapers are comparing Jacob Zuma's election as leader of the African National Congress to a Tsunami or tidal wave, calling the defeat of president Thabo Mbeki a "Zunami." Zuma, once national deputy president, took 60 percent of the congress votes, Mbeki just 40 percent.
His triumph has given a lift to Zimbabweans in South Africa who think he will influence his party and government policy on Zimbabwe. Zuma is likely to become South African president in 2009 and the diasporans believe he’ll be firmer with Harare than Mr. Mbeki.
Political analyst John Makumbe adds that while Mr. Mbeki remains president of the nation, Zuma’s influence as ANC chief will be considerable.
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