![Former South African President Jacob Zuma says he is the victim of a political witch hunt [PHOTO SUPPLIED]](https://centralnews.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Jacob-Zuma1.jpg "Jacob-Zuma1")
Jacob Zuma
By Thabo Mosia
Former South African and ANC President Jacob Zuma has rejected the African National Congress’s (ANC) decision to uphold his expulsion, stating that the current leadership under President Cyril Ramaphosa lacks the authority to remove him from the party he has loyally served for 65 uninterrupted years. Zuma announced plans to consult with his legal team, family, and political allies, including long-time comrade Tony Yengeni, before deciding on his next steps.
In a statement issued by the Jacob Zuma Foundation, Zuma described the ANC’s ruling under the leadership of President Cyril Ramaphosa as lacking authority. “The Jacob Zuma Foundation notes the decision made by the ANC National Disciplinary Committee of Appeal confirming the alleged expulsion of its Patron, H.E. President Zuma, from his 65-year-long membership of the ANC,” the statement read. Zuma added that he remains actively engaged in his political and social commitments, citing his recent leadership at a meeting of the National High Command of Umkhonto we Sizwe (MK), as well as attending the funeral of six MK women members who tragically lost their lives en route to Nkandla.
Zuma’s reaction highlights an intensifying political battle within the ANC, with broader implications for South Africa’s political landscape.
ANC’s Stance on Jacob Zuma’s Expulsion
The ANC’s expulsion of Zuma was confirmed in a detailed statement issued on 22 November 2024. The NDCA upheld the decision of the National Disciplinary Committee, citing Zuma’s role in establishing and leading the MK Party as a direct breach of ANC values and principles. According to the ANC, Zuma’s actions represented “the highest form of ill-discipline” and “a direct assault on the historical mission of the ANC.”
The party emphasized the importance of maintaining discipline as a cornerstone of its unity. “Discipline is a core foundation of our movement, ensuring unity of purpose and unity in action,” the statement read. The ANC accused Zuma of abandoning its core values of loyalty and collective accountability, undermining its unity at a critical time for organizational renewal.
The ANC also urged its members to recommit to the principles of revolutionary morality and discipline, warning against factionalism and self-serving conduct. “This decision must serve as a reminder that no individual is greater than the movement,” the ANC said.
Zuma’s Response: Legal and Political Consultations
Zuma has strongly refuted the ANC’s claims, questioning the legitimacy of the decision and the authority of the current leadership under President Ramaphosa. In his statement, Zuma confirmed his intention to deliberate with his advisors before making a public announcement about his next steps.
“Once a decision has been reached, it will be communicated to the nation by H.E. President Zuma,” the Jacob Zuma Foundation stated. Zuma also highlighted his ongoing commitment to his political and social engagements, reaffirming his active participation in South African political life despite the expulsion.
The Formation of the MK Party
The ANC’s decision to expel Zuma stems from his leadership of the MK Party, a splinter group he established earlier this year. The MK Party participated in the May 2024 general elections, positioning itself as a rival to the ANC and drawing criticism for allegedly dividing the liberation movement. Analysts have described the party’s emergence as a significant challenge to the ANC’s dominance, particularly in key provinces like KwaZulu-Natal.
Zuma’s association with the MK Party is seen as a culmination of his strained relationship with the ANC leadership. The party’s statement on Friday emphasized that his actions were a betrayal of the ANC’s mission to build a united and democratic South Africa.
Reactions from Political and Public Figures
Tony Yengeni, a staunch Zuma ally, has voiced his support for the former president, criticizing the ANC’s decision as politically motivated. Yengeni has argued that Zuma’s expulsion reflects deeper divisions within the ANC, fueled by factionalism and personal vendettas.
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