Paper short abstract

This paper explores Jacob Zuma's rise and rule within the ANC to explore statehood and citizenship in South Africa.

Paper long abstract

This paper explores Jacob Zuma's rise and rule within the ANC. I ask what the political crises that he has faced and avoided can tell us about statehood and citizenship in South Africa. Turning to the future, I explore the political imaginaries and identities of South Africa's poorest citizens, asking what impact their politics will have upon Zuma's prospects, and the prospects of the ANC more broadly.