Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla is a name that resonates in South African political circles, not just because of her lineage but also due to her influence and controversial public presence. Born on 19 May 1982 in Maputo, Mozambique, Duduzile is the daughter of former President Jacob Zuma and the late Kate Mantsho. Over the years, she has made headlines for her political journey, social media activism, and more recently, her role as a Member of the National Assembly of South Africa. Here are five crucial facts you should know about her:
1. Political Journey and Party Affiliation
Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla started her political career within the African National Congress (ANC) but made headlines in 2023 when she left the ANC to join the newly formed UMkhonto we Sizwe party. Her departure coincided with her father’s exit from the ANC, and she quickly rose to prominence within the new party, serving in its inner core group. In the 2024 South African general election, she ran in the 18th position on the party’s national list and assumed office as a Member of the National Assembly on 25 June 2024. Her swift rise within UMkhonto we Sizwe has solidified her status as a significant player in South African politics.
2. Social Media Influence and Controversy
Duduzile is known for her outspoken nature on Twitter, where she has built a reputation as a vocal political commentator. However, her tweets have not been without controversy. In 2021, following her father’s arrest for contempt of court, Duduzile faced accusations from the Democratic Alliance (DA) and the ANC for allegedly posting tweets that contributed to the 2021 South African unrest. Although she denied inciting violence, her social media presence continues to spark public debate and media scrutiny.
3. Accusations of Involvement in International Campaigns
In 2023, Duduzile’s social media activity drew international attention when a report by the United Kingdom-based Centre for Information Resilience alleged that she played a pivotal role in a Russian-backed Twitter campaign aimed at increasing support for the Russian invasion of Ukraine in South Africa. The report suggested that her tweets were part of a coordinated effort to sway public opinion, making her a central figure in the narrative surrounding South Africa’s stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
4. Role in the Pan-African Parliament
In July 2024, Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla expanded her political influence beyond South Africa by being elected to represent the country in the Pan-African Parliament. This role not only elevated her political profile on the continental stage but also positioned her as a voice in African diplomacy and legislative matters. Her participation in the Pan-African Parliament signifies her growing influence and ambitions within African politics.
5. Legal Troubles and Arrest on Terrorism Charges
On 30 January 2025, Duduzile was arrested on terrorism charges, accused of using social media to incite violence that contributed to the 2021 South African unrest. The arrest sparked widespread media coverage and public debate about the role of social media in political activism. It also raised questions about freedom of speech versus accountability, making her a polarizing figure in South African political discourse. As her legal battles continue, her political future remains uncertain, but her influence in South African politics is undeniable