'Today is the day to care about politics', says Faith Daniels
Write the date down somewhere. Remember it. The 8th of August 2017. Yes, it's that important - if only for what will go down as a historic moment in parliament, with not a single change to the country's executive.
But if you believe that a few hundred Members of Parliament could really bring about change - then it's an even bigger day. If that is the scenario that will unfold, Jacob Zuma will not be at the helm of this country by the time the sun sets.
A motion of no confidence is nothing new in the National Assembly. President Jacob Zuma has survived numerous ones. But we've not seen a vote by way of a secret ballot when it comes to Zuma. This will be a first. When National Assembly speaker Baleka Mbete used the powers given to her by the Constitution in making her announcement on Monday, she made history and paved the way for members of parliament to vote with their conscience, without the glare of which party they represent.
If history has taught us anything though, it is that the majority party, the ANC, rarely loses its battles within the house when matters are put to a vote. The secrecy that comes with today's proceedings however brings with it a sense that the presidency could really be up for grabs, that there's a real chance that Zuma could be unseated.
It is a prospect that is hard to imagine, given the immense events which have characterised the Zuma presidency - the majority of it, not very presidential. In fact, it borders on downright criminality - let's talk about the 783 charges at some point, the Gupta links, Nkandlagate and more. Yet Jacob Zuma has remained the first citizen, has survived all of these issues being raised and investigations lodged. He has gone nowhere and has really taken responsibility for very little. So no doubt that change must set in, the question is, will it be today?
While MP's are getting ready to make their marks, various marches are planned around the country, with the biggest one expected on the steps of parliament in Cape Town. There is a clear call being made from various quarters that Zuma must go. But unlike an election - our voices and wishes don't matter. It really just comes down to the wishes and wants of members of parliament. It is also a great test for the majority party, the ANC - a motion succeeding doesn't bode well for the road to an elective conference in December, divisions glaring. Success would also mean that the woman who announced the secret ballot, will step into the seat of president, for 30 days. If Baleka Mbete's demeanor while addressing the nation on Monday is anything to go by - Madame Speaker is ready to become Madame President.
So let's see whether our MP's are ready to usher in a new president. The nation certainly is.