Jacob Zuma
By Thabo Mosia
The African National Congress (ANC) has officially expelled former President Jacob Zuma, a move upheld by the party’s National Disciplinary Committee of Appeal (NDCA). This decision, announced on Friday, 22 October 2024, is seen as one of the most decisive actions taken by the ANC to preserve its unity and discipline amid rising internal tensions.
The expulsion stems from Zuma’s involvement in the formation of the MK Party, a political organisation outside the ANC’s alliance. The ANC considers this a grave breach of organisational discipline and loyalty.
ANC’s Statement on Zuma’s Expulsion
In a statement, ANC National Spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu-Motsiri explained the party’s position, emphasising the importance of discipline and organisational loyalty:
*“The African National Congress (ANC) National Disciplinary Committee of Appeal (NDCA) upheld the decision of the National Disciplinary Committee to expel Mr. Jacob Zuma from the ANC. This decision reaffirms the ANC’s commitment to revolutionary morality, revolutionary discipline, and democratic centralism.
Discipline is a core foundation of our movement, ensuring unity of purpose and unity in action. It is during testing moments of trial and challenge that the most advanced cadres are distinguished by their unwavering commitment to the principles which have held this movement together, respect for organisational processes, and loyalty to the collective decisions of the movement.
Mr. Zuma’s behaviour exemplifies the highest form of ill-discipline and a direct assault on the historical mission of the ANC. By establishing and leading a rival political party, he abandoned the core values of organisational loyalty and collective accountability, converting himself into a tool for destabilisation.
The ANC’s traditions do not call for unity for its own sake, devoid of critical reflection, engagement, and accountability. The selfless commitment to the NDR demands that cadres place the collective movement and its processes above their ambitions, and organisational discipline compels adherence to the movement’s decisions, even in the face of adversity.
As a former president of the ANC, Mr. Zuma was expected to embody the highest standards of disciplined leadership and advanced cadres who serve as guides and inspiration for all members of our movement and society. Instead, his actions have undermined the unity and cohesion of the movement at a time when it is critical to consolidate and push forward with organisational renewal and confront the pressing challenges facing South Africa.
This severe breach of our organisational foundation necessitated his expulsion to safeguard the ANC’s integrity and ensure that the unity of the organisation remains in form and content.
Unity is not a given; it is achieved in active struggle and built on the collective disciplined actions of conscious leaders and members alike. The ANC will never permit an individual, regardless of stature or historical contribution, to undermine its mission to build a non-racial, non-sexist, democratic, and prosperous society.
We call on all cadres to recommit to the guiding principles of revolutionary morality and discipline, standing firm against factionalism and self-serving conduct. This decision must serve as a reminder that no individual is greater than the movement and that the ANC’s strength lies in its collective leadership and unwavering dedication to the aspirations of the people.”*
Zuma’s Contestation and the Appeal Process
Zuma contested his expulsion in a virtual hearing held on 1 November 2024, organised by the ANC’s NDCA. The former president’s legal representative, Tony Yengeni, argued for a physical and public appeal process. Zuma’s expulsion, which was initially decided in July 2024, has been a polarising issue within the ANC, sparking debates on loyalty, party unity, and ideological consistency.
The NDCA, chaired by Johnny de Lange, reviewed the merits of Zuma’s appeal but ultimately upheld the expulsion decision, citing his collaboration with the MK Party as a significant betrayal of ANC principles.
Background on Zuma’s Expulsion
Jacob Zuma’s expulsion is one of the most dramatic moments in South African political history. A former ANC leader (2007–2017) and South African president (2009–2018), Zuma has been a controversial figure, marred by allegations of corruption and state capture. Despite these controversies, Zuma has maintained a loyal base of support, particularly in rural areas and among ANC members who see him as a defender of the party’s revolutionary ideals.
Zuma was accused of aligning with the MK Party, a rival political organisation unaffiliated with the ANC. This affiliation was seen as a direct challenge to the party’s leadership and unity, particularly ahead of upcoming elections.
Reaction from the Jacob Zuma Foundation
The Jacob Zuma Foundation condemned the ANC’s decision, framing Zuma’s support for the MK Party as an ideological alignment rather than a betrayal. The foundation released a media alert on 1 October 2024, asserting that Zuma’s actions were in line with the ANC’s historic mission of economic freedom and social justice.
“H.E. President Zuma continues to assert his loyalty to the ANC, despite the expulsion. His support for the MK Party is grounded in shared ideological principles, not division,” the foundation stated.
Implications for the ANC and South Africa’s Political Landscape
Zuma’s expulsion has significant implications for the ANC, which faces the dual challenge of maintaining internal cohesion and addressing South Africa’s pressing socio-economic issues. The decision reflects the party’s determination to distance itself from elements perceived as threats to its unity and electoral performance.
Political analysts have noted that the move could either strengthen the ANC by demonstrating a commitment to discipline or deepen divisions within the party, especially among Zuma’s supporters.
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