By Phenyo Selinda
JOHANNESBURG – Suspended ANC member and President of the uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MK Party), Jacob Zuma, is set to appear before the ANC’s disciplinary hearing on 17 July. This pivotal session, which will be conducted virtually, deals with charges laid against Zuma for openly endorsing the MK Party.
Initially scheduled for 7 May 2024 at Luthuli House, the hearing was postponed. The African National Congress (ANC) communicated to Zuma that the proceedings would be rescheduled post-national elections, with the new date set for July.
Security Concerns Prompt Delay
In early May, a critical letter from ANC Secretary General Fikile Mbalula to Ralph Mgijima, Chairperson of the National Disciplinary Committee (NDC), unveiled the reasons behind the postponement. “Given the security evaluations at Luthuli House and recognising that events attracting large crowds could lead to violence – a risk we cannot take especially on the eve of the National and Provincial Elections set for 29 May 2024 – we have determined that it is prudent to suspend such activities,” Mbalula elaborated in his letter. He emphasized that this decision specifically extends to the NDC hearing concerning Zuma, underscoring the ANC’s cautious approach during the pre-election phase.
Charges and Allegations
The disciplinary hearing is set to address allegations against Zuma by the ANC’s NDC. The former president faces accusations of aligning with, and endorsing, entities not associated with the ANC, thereby jeopardising the party’s objectives and vision.
Zuma’s support for the uMkhonto weSizwe Party has sparked significant debate, especially since his December declaration of intent to vote for the new political group, straying from his historical ANC loyalties. The MK Party, established by expelled ANC member Jabulani Khumalo and others, represents a notable shift in South Africa’s political landscape.
Political Tensions and Statements
President Zuma has been vocal about his dissatisfaction with the current ANC leadership under Cyril Ramaphosa, particularly criticising its policies on crucial national issues such as load shedding. Addressing supporters in Orlando, Soweto last year, Zuma, through his daughter Dudu Zuma, conveyed his discontent: “Some ANC leaders have wanted me to campaign for the ANC in the 2024 elections. However, my conscience will not allow me to mislead the people. The ANC under Ramaphosa has led the country into darkness with its policies on load shedding.”
Despite his criticisms, Zuma has maintained a deep connection to the ANC, staunchly stating, “I will die a member of the ANC.”
Election Outcomes and Future Implications
The recent national and provincial elections witnessed a significant turn of events, with the MK Party securing a substantial share of votes, much to the detriment of the ANC. Final results from the Independent Electoral Commission revealed that the ANC garnered only 40% of the total votes, while the MK Party emerged in third place with 15%.
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