Deputy Minister Mondli Gungubele Dismisses Coup Plot Allegations as ‘Sickness,’ Strongly Denies Involvement in Bid to Oust President Ramaphosa
In a sharp rebuke to recent reports alleging a conspiracy within the African National Congress (ANC) to remove President Cyril Ramaphosa, Deputy Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies Mondli Gungubele has categorically denied any involvement. Speaking amid growing speculation ahead of the party’s National General Council (NGC) scheduled for 8 to 11 December 2025, Gungubele described the claims as baseless falsehoods requiring “the best possible psychiatric assessment.” This comes as the ANC faces internal tensions following its electoral setbacks in 2024 and the formation of the Government of National Unity (GNU), with some members reportedly dissatisfied with leadership decisions.
Gungubele’s denial echoes similar statements from other implicated figures, highlighting a unified front among Ramaphosa’s allies against what they term divisive rumours. As South Africa prepares for the NGC, which will review the party’s progress since its 2022 national conference, these allegations have sparked debates about stability within the ruling party. The Deputy Minister’s strong words underscore the potential for such claims to undermine unity at a critical time for the ANC’s renewal agenda.
The Allegations: Reports of a Plot Led by Deputy Ministers
Recent media reports have suggested that Gungubele, along with Deputy Minister of Health Joe Phaahla, is part of a group of disgruntled ANC leaders plotting to unseat Ramaphosa at the upcoming NGC. The claims portray the duo as spearheading efforts to rally National Executive Committee (NEC) members against the President, citing frustrations over demotions to deputy roles in the post-2024 election cabinet reshuffle. These positions are viewed by some as downgrades from their previous ministerial posts, fueling alleged resentment within Ramaphosa’s own CR17 faction—those who backed his 2017 leadership bid.
The reports describe a tense NEC meeting where Ramaphosa reportedly confronted the alleged plotters, accusing them of undermining party unity. Sources claim the conspiracy aims to disband the current NEC and install new leadership, potentially straining the GNU alliance with parties like the Democratic Alliance (DA). However, the ANC has officially rejected these narratives, with spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu labelling them as attempts to destabilise the party during a period of renewal.
Gungubele’s Vehement Denial: ‘A Sickness to Assert Falsehood’
Responding to the accusations, Mondli Gungubele dismissed them outright, questioning the mental state of those spreading the rumours. “A suggestion that I am part of a movement to remove the current President of the ANC needs the best possible psychiatric assessment. Because it must be part of sickness to assert falsehood at all costs,” he stated. Gungubele, a long-time ANC member and former mayor of Ekurhuleni, emphasised his loyalty to Ramaphosa and the party’s collective decisions.
His comments align with Phaahla’s earlier denial, where the Deputy Health Minister called the claims “utter rubbish and pure hogwash,” invoking warnings from late ANC president Oliver Tambo about “wedge drivers” sowing division. Both denials portray the allegations as malicious efforts to create rifts within the NEC and tarnish the integrity of committed leaders.
Gungubele’s background as a staunch Ramaphosa supporter during the CR17 campaign makes the accusations particularly surprising. He has consistently advocated for the President’s renewal agenda, focusing on anti-corruption measures and economic recovery. Critics suggest the rumours may stem from factional rivalries, possibly linked to the Radical Economic Transformation (RET) group or external forces aiming to weaken the ANC ahead of the 2026 local elections.
ANC’s Response: Closing Ranks Around Ramaphosa
The ANC leadership has rallied behind Ramaphosa, with Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula asserting that there is “no leadership struggle” and calling on members to “close ranks.” During a media briefing on 1 December 2025, following a special NEC meeting, Mbalula dismissed the reports as “stories planted deliberately by forces from within and outside our movement who are hell-bent on disintegrating the ANC.” He described such claims as the work of “dark forces” working overtime to sow discord.
Multiple ANC structures, including the Veterans League and provincial branches like those in Limpopo, have condemned the alleged plot as divisive. Resolutions from these groups urge members to allow Ramaphosa to complete his term until the 2027 elective conference, focusing instead on organisational renewal and service delivery. The party’s spokesperson reiterated that the NGC will strictly review the implementation of 2022 resolutions, not serve as a leadership contest.
Broader Context: Internal Tensions and the Road to NGC
The allegations surface at a pivotal moment for the ANC, which is navigating an “existential crisis” after securing only 40% of the vote in the 2024 elections—the first time without an outright majority since 1994. The formation of the GNU, including centrist parties like the DA, has alienated some radical elements who prefer alliances with the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) or uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party. Reports of discontent over cabinet appointments, including demotions for figures like Gungubele and Phaahla, have fueled speculation of internal rebellions.
Gungubele, previously the Minister of Communications, was moved to a deputy role in the reshuffle, a decision some attribute to balancing coalition demands. Similar frustrations are said to exist among other CR17 loyalists, who feel sidelined despite their support for Ramaphosa. However, the President has addressed these head-on, reportedly having a “meltdown” at an NEC meeting to confront the plotters directly.
The upcoming NGC, set for 8 to 11 December 2025 in Ekurhuleni, will assess progress on renewal, government performance, and socio-economic issues. Mbalula has warned that any attempts to derail the agenda with leadership squabbles will be met with resistance, describing the forum as a “big political school” for robust, focused discussions.
🔴Central News Weekly Edition | Issue 121 Download the Latest Print and E-Edition | Matlala Claims Demanded R1m in Cash Woolies Back During Shocking Testimony🔴
Download Here:
Direct PDF File Here:
https://centralnews.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Central-News-Issue-114-1.pdf
Read all our publications on magzter:
https://www.magzter.com/ZA/Central-News-Pty-Ltd/Central-News/Newspaper/All-Issues
Central News also offers Sponsored Editorial Content, Podcasts , Radio / Social Media Simulcast, Video Production , Live Streaming Services, Press Conferences, and Paid Interviews (Video/Audio) etc.
We guarantee exceptional exposure, reach, and engagement, with an excellent return on investment.
Advertisement:
To place your advert on our platforms (Print Newspaper or Digital Platforms) : Please email : sales@centralnews.co.za
For Business Related:
business@centralnews.co.za
Newsroom:
Send your Stories / Media Statements To: newsroom@centralnews.co.za
General Info: info@centralnews.co.za
Office Administrator:
admin@centralnews.co.za
Whatsapp / Call: 081 495 5487
Website: https://www.centralnews.co.za
Social Media Platforms (@centralnewsza) : Linkedin, Facebook, Tiktok, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube