In a recent exchange of words, African National Congress (ANC) secretary-general Fikile Mbalula and the party’s national chairperson Gwede Mantashe have engaged in a public disagreement over Mbalula’s comments regarding the Nkandla scandal and former president Jacob Zuma.
The rift highlights the internal tensions within the ANC and raises questions about the party’s commitment to transparency and accountability.
During a speech at the Mjindi Town Hall in Barberton, Mbalula admitted that members of the ANC had lied about the fire pool at Zuma’s Nkandla homestead to protect the former president.
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This revelation sparked controversy and criticism, with the civil rights movement NotInMyName condemning Mbalula’s comments as an insult to the country’s constitution and parliament.
Mantashe, in response, publicly criticized Mbalula for his remarks, stating that he had “said things he should not have said.”
Mantashe emphasized the importance of choosing words carefully when in a leadership position and suggested that the matter should have been dealt with internally. He urged Mbalula to adhere to the protocols of the party and avoid public spats.
Mbalula, however, did not back down and defended his statements. He highlighted the existence of protocols within the ANC and expressed his willingness to receive guidance and criticism from elders.
Mbalula argued that if Mantashe had concerns about his comments, he should have addressed them directly rather than engaging in a public disagreement. This clash between the ANC’s secretary-general and national chairperson highlights the challenges facing the party.
The admission of lying to Parliament and the public raises questions about the ANC’s integrity and commitment to upholding the principles of transparency and accountability. Mbalula’s revelation not only undermines the party’s credibility but also exposes the internal divisions within the ANC.
Political analyst Prof Andre Duvenhage expressed concern over Mbalula’s approach, describing it as “extremely counterproductive” and potentially damaging to both the ANC and President Cyril Ramaphosa.
Duvenhage argued that while Mbalula may be speaking the truth, his statements could have severe consequences for the party, as they reinforce the perception of the ANC as a corrupt organization governed by mafias.
This public dispute also raises broader questions about the ANC’s ability to govern effectively. If the party is unable to address internal conflicts and maintain a united front, it risks losing public trust and support.
The ANC’s role as the governing party of South Africa comes into question when its own members openly admit to lying and protecting individuals accused of corruption.
The Nkandla scandal has been a contentious issue for the ANC, and Mbalula’s admission only adds fuel to the fire. The party’s handling of the scandal, as well as its response to Mbalula’s comments, will undoubtedly have an impact on its standing with the South African public.
As the ANC continues to grapple with internal divisions and the fallout from the Nkandla scandal, the party must prioritize transparency, accountability, and ethical leadership.
The ANC must address these issues head-on and demonstrate its commitment to the values it claims to uphold. Only through genuine introspection and reform can the party regain the trust and confidence of the South African people.
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