Nkandla Style video: Why most politicians (especially JZ) hate social media - Daily Newsletter

Hi there,

Some of my fondest memories came on that memorable day at Ellis Park in 1995 for the Rugby World Cup final. From my pal Zweli Mncube teaching a bus-load how to sing Shosholoza through to Madiba in a Bok jersey through to Japie Mulder’s flying tackle when Jonah Lomu looked try-bound and all hues of South Africans dancing in the streets after the game. One of the strongest, though, is Leon Schuster’s “Hie Kommie Bokke” ditty that was blazed through the stadium at every opportunity, keeping “gees” rolling especially when the Springboks were under pressure. A catchy tune that takes me back to that wonderful occasion every time I hear it.

Another catchy tune now doing the rounds could also have a significant impact. A Youtube video called Nkandla Style has gone viral, with more than 240 000 views by last evening. Someone who sounds a lot like Schuster has voiced lyrics to the backdrop of Psy’s Gangnam Style, highlighting mis-steps South Africa’s unpopular President Jacob Zuma has taken the past few years. After listening to the parody, the only surprise is how JZ has managed to hold onto power after so many blunders. Few politicians are fans of social media (the DA’s Helen Zille being a rare exception). After listening to Nkandla Style that’s no surprise.

Best

Alec