JACOB Zuma's constant reference to and deification of former president Nelson Mandela's legacy in an attempt to cleanse his blemished image is lamentable.

JACOB Zuma's constant reference to and deification of former president Nelson Mandela's legacy in an attempt to cleanse his blemished image is lamentable.

There is no way Mandela's legacy can be cut out and pasted into the Zuma era.

Besides, every president has to carve out his own legacy; Zuma and Nelson Mandela are as different as chalk and cheese.

Throughout his political life Mandela never displayed any appetite for political power.

His ascension to the presidency was graceful and natural and not achieved by hook or crook. Even when power was thrust on him he graciously surrendered it after one term in office.

Zuma must stop his obsession with Mandela because it will make him lose sight of the many challenges facing the country.

Don Shongwe, Windsor East