Former Minister Lindiwe Zulu, an indomitable figure in South African politics, recently shared her sentiments about stepping away from the limelight. In an interview, Zulu expressed contentment in her current position while reaffirming her unwavering commitment to serving the people of South Africa.
As the outgoing Minister of Social Development, Zulu's absence from the list of ministers announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa stirred curiosity and speculation. However, Zulu gracefully dismissed any notion of resentment, emphasizing her gratitude for the opportunity to serve as a cabinet minister. "Not at all. It doesn't feel like that at all. It shouldn't feel like that at all for anyone because I believe we go there knowing perfectly well that you go and serve at the time that you have been requested to serve," Zulu stated candidly during the interview.
With an illustrious career spanning decades, Zulu's journey has been marked by dedication and a tireless pursuit of progress. Reflecting on her vast experience, she expressed pride in the impact she made during her tenure.
"I personally feel good about the impact that I was able to show my skills, having been given the opportunity to study. I am a journalist by profession with a Master's degree. I am very well experienced in politics, having started way back in 1994," Zulu shared, highlighting her extensive background and the depth of her expertise.
Zulu's dedication to serving the South African people remains unwavering, even as she transitions to a new chapter in her life.
"I am very happy where I am. From a point of view of knowing that I did the best, I gave it my best and also for understanding that the Department of Social Development, from the time I started, I knew it as a department serving people in different areas but I had not really done any work around it. When I got there, I was able to pick up a lot of things," she affirmed.
As Lindiwe Zulu bids farewell to the position she held with distinction, she emphasizes the importance of continuity and collaboration in achieving the nation's goals. Acknowledging her successor, Sisisi Tolashe, Zulu voiced her support for the incoming Minister of Social Development, highlighting their longstanding comradeship within the African National Congress.
"The good thing is that this is my comrade that I have worked with for a very long time in the African National Congress, and I am happy that it continues to be the African National Congress that is responsible for this very sensitive area of the work of serving South Africans – social development," Zulu said, expressing her support for her successor, Sisisi Tolashe, who takes over the reins of the vital department.
Zulu's political journey is a testament to her resilience and dedication. From her early days as a journalist and her involvement in the 1976 student uprising to her role as a prominent figure in the ANC, she has consistently demonstrated a commitment to social justice and empowering the people. She served as a special envoy to Zimbabwe, a role that showcased her diplomatic skills and her understanding of regional politics.
"I now have to be looking at a whole lot of other things and I wish to thank the African National Congress for giving me the opportunity, because the experience I have is wide, and I am still going to be of service to the people of South Africa," Zulu said, hinting at her future plans.
While she will be taking a "breather" with her family, she insists that her commitment to serving the people remains strong. "I am willing to slug it out there … there is lots of things to do in South Africa, and there is also lots of things to do in the world," she declared, leaving the door open for future opportunities.
