Democratic Alliance (DA) leader Helen Zille on Friday praised President Jacob Zuma for being "affable, humble and friendly", but said he was failing to provide a clear lead when it came to tackling South Africa's problems.

"Looking at the first 100 days of his presidency, we must acknowledge the good and the bad," she said in her weekly newsletter, SA Today.

"On the positive side, he is affable, humble and approachable. The personal tone of the presidency is open and friendly.

"We give credit to President Zuma in his first State of the Nation Address for being honest about the enormous problems facing South Africa, such as crime, unemployment, failing education and HIV/Aids."

He had also made some good appointments, such as Trevor Manuel in the Presidency, Pravin Gordhan in the Treasury, Tokyo Sexwale in Human Settlements, and Gill Marcus in the Reserve Bank.

However, as political leader of the country he had shown little direction during his first 100 days in office.

"His political performance as president... gives grounds for grave concern at times."

Zuma often gave the impression he thought the Constitution carried less weight than the priorities of his party, the African National Congress (ANC).

"As the political leader of our country, President Zuma has shown little direction. Although he acknowledges our country's problems, President Zuma shows no inclination to give a clear lead on what should be done about many of them.

"He gives a sense of drifting on the strongest current of the day. He often acts more like a deployee than a leader.

"Power has undoubtedly shifted from the Presidency of South Africa to the secretary-general of the ANC, Gwede Mantashe, and to the headquarters of the [South African] Communist Party and the Congress of South African Trade Unions," Zille said.

Zuma had an excellent PR team, and had enjoyed a honeymoon from heaven.

"So far, though, his presidency has been a matter of style before substance. As the clouds gather over South Africa, we should like to see clear leadership, brave policies and unyielding allegiance to the Constitution.

"In short, South Africa needs a president who is prepared to make some enemies to do the right thing," Zille said.