The Reputation Institute’s survey results, published at the weekend, show that out of the 24 public figures surveyed for perceived trustworthiness, President Zuma comes in at position 19, scoring just 36 percent. The only politician who scored lower than Zuma was former Congress of the People (Cope) leader Mbhazima Shilowa.

The Reputation Institute canvassed the opinions of people in living standards measure (LSM) six and above across South Africa’s four largest provinces, and came up with a list of South Africa’s most trusted leaders. Topping the list was South African mining magnate Patrice Motsepe, followed by Cosatu General Secretary Zwelinzima Vavi at number two.

This delighted Cosatu of course, who merrily chirped yesterday that it was not surprised that President Jacob Zuma was near the bottom of the list of South Africa’s most trusted leaders, and that they “are pleased that Vavi received the second highest rating in a poll about who South Africans trust most.” The federation said it was inevitable that Zuma would be criticised more than other officials. Cosatu suggested this was because of his high-profile, rather than because he did more things worth criticizing.

Deputy President Kgalema Motlanthe was third on the list and Democratic Alliance leader and Western Cape Premier Helen Zille came in at number six, with scores of 60 and 58 percent respectively.

[Source: EWN]