We’re going to try and avoid coming across as giddy with relief about this one and simply report what Jacob had to say, but please forgive us if we slip up along the way.

Zuma was talking at the ANC’s National General Council when he caught up with his friends at the Mail and Guardian, shedding light on claims by party supporters that he was considering a third term in office. Here’s that exchange:

“Even if they beg me I won’t stand,” he said…

“I will never. No, I won’t,” a firm Zuma said.

If you’re thinking this is all hogwash and presidents can only serve two terms then yes, you are correct. The thing is that there are no restrictions on how many terms someone can serve as ANC president, many supporters (and some within the ANC) willing Jacob to stay on as the party’s leader.

Jacob was having none of it, singing the virtues of a free and democratic society:

“Democracy needs competition. It is allowed. I don’t know why people get scared when others say this is what we think,” he said.

Sounds to me like someone is keen to hang up those boots and retire to a life of leisure at Nkandla, entertaining guests at his private cinema and enjoying life’s simple pleasures.

Don’t let us stop you good sir, by all means move along.

[source:mg]