What kind of president will Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma be if she is chosen at the African National Congress’s December 2017 congress? She has been fairly media averse and hasn’t granted many interviews in the past few years, but taking a closer look at her history does provide some clues about the kind of leader she is.

In this book, journalist Carien du Plessis looks at Dlamini-Zuma’s 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 African Union Commission chairperson.

The book considers her feminism and political philosophy; tracks her presidential ambitions and campaigning; and explores how her personal relationship with one of her most important backers, President Jacob Zuma, will influence her leadership.

About the author

Carien du Plessis is a political journalist based in Johannesburg. She started her full-time journalism career at the now-defunct South African edition of ThisDay, and has worked for Die Burger, Beeld, Independent Newspapers and City Press before going freelance. She is particularly interested in African and South African politics and the role of women in society.

Woman in the Wings: Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma is published by Penguin Random House South Africa