Brett Murray 's painting , called ` ` The President , '' was displayed at a Johannesburg gallery . Portrait of President Jacob Zuma was removed from public show after protesters attacked it . South Africa 's opposition ANC claims the artwork offends the president 's family . `` Lessons should be learned from the furor , the statement said , adding that the gallery , artist and all South Africans should commit themselves to working for `` a South Africa that is united in its diverse cultures '' and respects all individuals ' rights . The controversy over the portrait has raised questions about freedom of speech .
Brett Murray 's painting , called ` ` The President , '' was displayed at a Johannesburg gallery . Portrait of President Jacob Zuma was removed from public show after protesters attacked it . South Africa 's opposition ANC claims the artwork offends the president 's family . The controversy over the portrait has raised questions about freedom of speech .