Carien du Plessis

As a longstanding cabinet minister, chairperson of the African Union Commission and ANC presidential hopeful, Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma has always been in the public eye, but to many people this media-averse politician remains an enigma. Praised by some and criticised by others, and variously described as ‘undiplomatic’ and ‘one of the continent’s best political operators’, it is difficult for the public to form an opinion of her. In this book, journalist Carien du Plessis investigates Dlamini Zuma’s life and career, tracking her early years, education and involvement in the struggle; her role as a cabinet minister under all four presidents of democratic South Africa; and her achievements as AU Commission chairperson. The book considers her feminism and political philosophy; tracks her presi¬dential ambitions and campaigning; and explores how her personal relationship with one of her most important backers, President Jacob Zuma, has influenced her. Whatever role she takes up next within the ANC, Dlamini Zuma has a part to play in South Africa’s political future. Woman in the Wings is a fascinating insight into what type of leader she may one day become.