Jacob Zuma is at the centre of dividing the ANC and the country. When the Scorpions charged him, he said there was a conspiracy to stop him from becoming president.

Jacob Zuma is at the centre of dividing the ANC and the country. When the Scorpions charged him, he said there was a conspiracy to stop him from becoming president.

This caused a lot of tension, but tribal elements among his supporters were not reprimanded though the NEC, including Zuma, agreed that there was no conspiracy.

In the run-up to the Polokwane conference, the Zuma camp employed tactics that have never been seen in the history of the ANC. Kgalema Motlanthe, who was responsible for ensuring discipline, allowed the hooligans free rein.

Again Zuma did not reprimand them. After he was elected, he paid lip service to unity and discipline. At his victory party he said there were people who did not accept his presidency.

It was clear that he was instructing his henchmen to deal with dissenters. Earlier, Fikile Mbalula referred to opponents as "mutineers" who should be "dealt with". When the Scorpions charged Zuma, Cosatu warned there would be bloodshed. This is worrying to democrats.

If Zuma is genuinely concerned about unity and stability and is a true statesman, he must speak out against his supporters' abhorrent behaviour.

Nhlanhla Ndwandwe, Richards Bay