Moment of the year:
Springboks taking the Rugby World Cup. Although Jacob Zuma’s ascendency to the presidency was dramatic, the world cup victory was astonishing and brilliant.

Political play of the year:
Jacob Zuma’s brilliant spin-doctoring which sold the ANC masses on the idea that he was innocent and there was a conspiracy against him. It won him the prize of the ANC presidency. Defeats Helen Zille’s re-invention of the DA as a credible political force.

Blunder of the year:
Thabo Mbeki’s failure to identify and promote a credible successor to challenge Zuma.

Statement of the year:
“I am called upon to lead this multi-class organisation and ruling party, succeeding Cde Thabo Mbeki, a comrade, friend and brother.” – Jacob Zuma’s speech accepting victory.

Understatement of the year:
“There is likely to be anxiety regarding the existence of two Presidents – one of state and the other of the party.” – Jacob Zuma in his closing address to the ANC conference in December

Media play of the year:
The launch of The Times, of course. But I would say that wouldn’t I?

Blog post of the year
Zuma is new ANC president – Mbeki defeated
Again, I must apologise for this choice because I am biased, but I would have to say that the smokingest post was on our very own Politically Correct blog when Brendan Boyle broke the news to the world that Jacob Zuma had won the ANC election battle against Thabo Mbeki. The post was one of dozens by the politics staff, who took online reporting to a new level, introducing real life drama into South African blogging.
And then there is this post:
Because I have loved life, I shall have no sorrow to die – Bolton Deventer passes away
Nuff said …

Related posts:

1. Unhappy New Year to you
2. Zuma is eating Mbeki’s breakfast, lunch and supper. Burp!
3. How the ANC’s political battles will reshape politics
4. Zuma served papers: The endgame begins
5. Who will govern? Mbeki or Zuma?