Controversy mounts over Fikile Mbalula’s transparency on ANC’s actions in Nkandla saga
Fikile Mbalula, the African National Congress (ANC) Secretary General, has recently faced backlash both from within his party and from the public for his controversial remarks concerning the ANC’s actions during the Nkandla Homestead scandal involving former President Jacob Zuma.
Mbalula boldly admitted during a speech at an ANC cadres forum in Barberton, Mpumalanga on Sunday, that the ANC had provided false information to parliament to protect Zuma while he was embroiled in the controversy over expensive renovations at his Nkandla Homestead in KwaZulu Natal. Mbalula revealed the party had lied about a swimming pool being a firefighting feature, a falsehood which has now come to be known as the Nkandla Fire Pool Scandal.
“We went to Parliament and opened an ad hoc committee and said a swimming pool is a fire pool,” Mbalula said. He further stated that the claim was a clear lie, and it put individuals, like then Police Minister Nathi Nhleko, in a tight spot while trying to justify it. According to Mbalula, such falsehoods have cost people their careers.
The ANC has been split over these remarks, with ANC National Chairperson Gwede Mantashe suggesting that Mbalula was led astray by the media spotlight and spoke inappropriately. Mantashe called for Mbalula to exercise better judgement when making public statements, emphasizing on the importance of responsibility in leadership.
In contrast, Nhleko reportedly lambasted Mbalula in a leaked voice note that circulated widely on social media on Tuesday. Nhleko, who oversaw the controversial Nkandla upgrades, labelled Mbalula the weakest secretary general in the history of the ANC, criticizing his lack of strategic and tactical leadership and questioning his maturity.
Public opinion has also divided over Mbalula’s remarks. While some commended his transparency, others berated him for undermining the stability of ANC. A user on Twitter, @K12Sipho, even went as far as suggesting that Mbalula’s behaviour could have a detrimental effect on the ANC’s future.
Destroying the ANC is easy – just give Fikile Mbalula a mic and an audience 😂😂😂 be rest assured he will embarrass himself and the organisation
— A STUDENT OF REVOLUTIONS (@SS_Mogashoa) January 7, 2024
As so many of us predicted Fikile Mbalula would single handedly collapse the ANC like he did our rail network ..I personally want to thank him for all his hard work ..A street name in his honour .. A Cul-de-sac perhaps ? pic.twitter.com/0NEutIjfOv
— The G (@Myviewsmyown) January 9, 2024
The SG who is single handedly making sure that @MYANC doesn't come close to 50%😂😂😂#2024IsOur1994 pic.twitter.com/YBBnIH2CY2
— Fulufhelo (@fulufhelo_DM) January 8, 2024
Fikile Mbalula is single-handedly destroying the ANC while the ANC is single handedly destroying Hamas and its narrative. 😂😂😂funny to watch.
— Sir Cabonena Alfred (@alfred_cabonena) January 9, 2024
Minister of Transport Fikile Mbalula has encouraged motorists travelling this festive season to embark on their journey during the daylight as it enhances alertness and visibility.
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