Fikile Mbalula
By Thabo Mosia
The Secretary-General of the African National Congress (ANC), Fikile Mbalula, has criticised political analyst Prince Mashele, labelling him a “hired gun” with “sponsored views” following Mashele’s appearance on The Hustlers Corner podcast with DJ Sbu.
During the podcast, Mashele shared his views on the ANC’s governance and South Africa’s political landscape, drawing parallels between the country’s current state and key historical moments. Mbalula, however, dismissed Mashele’s analysis, accusing him of being paid R12 million by ActionSA leader Herman Mashaba to promote Mashaba’s political interests and casting doubt on his credibility as an independent commentator.
“Prince Mashele was paid R12 million for promoting a politician. So how do we trust that his views are not sponsored? He is basically a hired gun,” Mbalula remarked. These statements follow Mashele’s recent appearance on Hustlers Corner with DJ Sbu, where he provided his analysis on South Africa’s political dynamics, including strong opinions on the African National Congress (ANC).
Mbalula further emphasized, “He is holding irresponsible, reckless, ahistorical, and out-of-order views. The darlings of public media, like this pseudo-analyst, are sustained by white liberal interests, which are inherently reactionary in nature.”
Mashele’s Democratic Alliance Aspirations Unveiled
As part of his critique, Mbalula revealed documents that allegedly show Mashele’s failed application to be the Democratic Alliance (DA) candidate for Premier. This disclosure raised questions about Mashele’s independence as a political analyst.
“How is this failed politician, who wanted to be a DA premier, still considered an independent political analyst? Clearly, he is embedded. South African media broadcasters need to take us all seriously,” said Mbalula, underscoring concerns about Mashele’s credibility.
The documents shared by Mbalula, dated 30 June 2018, show Mashele signing a declaration under oath as part of the DA’s candidate application process. The declaration confirms his commitment to DA principles and policies, a move that critics argue undermines his impartiality in political commentary.
The declaration included a commitment to uphold DA policies and financial contributions, stating that Mashele, the applicant, would “personally work in the election campaign” and “be required to pay a candidate fee.” The document was signed in the presence of a Commissioner of Oaths, with an official stamp from the South African Police Service.
Mashele’s Controversial Remarks on South Africa’s Politics
Mbalula’s comments came days after Mashele’s appearance on DJ Sbu’s Hustlers Corner, where he offered a wide-ranging critique of South African governance. During the interview, Mashele suggested that the ANC was responsible for confirming long-standing racial stereotypes about black leadership.
“Historically, white people have believed that black people cannot govern and are uncivilized. The ANC has confirmed this stereotype,” Mashele asserted during the interview.
These remarks, while controversial, reflect Mashele’s broader critique of the ANC’s performance over the years, particularly its inability to effectively manage public resources, create jobs, or uphold democratic values.
The ANC’s Response: Defending Historical and Political Legacy
Mbalula, however, dismissed Mashele’s comments as reactionary and out of touch with South Africa’s historical and political realities. He argued that Mashele’s analysis ignored the systemic issues rooted in colonialism and apartheid that have contributed to the country’s challenges.
“The dysfunctionality of Lesotho’s political economy, for example, is by design of a colonial past. Yet Mashele and others like him are masquerading as radicals while advancing regressive narratives,” Mbalula stated.
The ANC Secretary-General also reiterated the historical ties between South Africans and Basotho, pointing to shared cultural and linguistic heritage. “Most progressive South Africans know and respect the fact that they are the same people with Basotho. We share blood relations, history, language, and geography despite the artificial borders imposed by colonialism,” he said.
Mbalula’s Criticism of Media Narratives
Mbalula also took aim at the South African media, accusing it of giving platforms to individuals like Mashele, whom he described as opportunistic and ideologically inconsistent. He urged media outlets to prioritize integrity and ensure the impartiality of their contributors.
“The media must take us all seriously. They should not elevate voices like Prince Mashele, who are embedded in opposition politics and funded by liberal interests. These views do not represent the majority of South Africans,” Mbalula argued.
Mashele’s Position on Hustlers Corner
In his interview with DJ Sbu, Mashele reflected on his personal journey, emphasizing his contentment with life outside of the political mainstream. He also discussed the challenges of navigating South Africa’s political landscape as a commentator.
“Once you cross 40, you worry about important things: health, family, and being yourself. I’ve moved to a small town where life is peaceful. It nourishes my soul,” Mashele said.
Despite his philosophical outlook, Mashele did not shy away from making bold predictions about South Africa’s political future. He argued that 2024 would mark a historic turning point, comparing it to 1910 and 1994 in terms of its significance.
Looking Ahead: What This Means for South Africa
Mbalula’s critique of Mashele reflects broader tensions within South Africa’s political landscape as the country approaches the 2024 national elections. With the ANC facing declining support, opposition parties like the DA and ActionSA are positioning themselves as viable alternatives.
However, questions about the impartiality of political analysts like Mashele raise important issues about the role of media and commentary in shaping public opinion. As Mbalula noted, “South Africans deserve honest, unbiased analysis that reflects the realities of our country, not views that are bought and paid for.”
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