African National Congress (ANC) Secretary-General
By Thabo Mosia
African National Congress (ANC) Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula has dismissed former President Jacob Zuma’s legal threats as “mischief,” accusing him of thriving on disunity and self-interest. Mbalula’s remarks came during a media briefing on Robben Island, coinciding with the ANC’s 113th anniversary celebrations.
“He had the opportunity to send his love letter many days ago; he didn’t, but he chose this day. That’s how he works. That’s how he operates,” Mbalula said, characterising Zuma’s actions as a calculated attempt to divert attention from the commemoration. “[Zuma is a] mischievous, uncouth, ridiculous old man who basically thrives on disunity for his own self-interest.”
Zuma’s Demand for Reinstatement
Zuma, through his attorneys, served a demand letter to the ANC on 8 January 2025, requesting the reversal of his expulsion from the party, which he claims was unlawful and procedurally flawed. The former president, who has been a member of the ANC for 65 years, argued that the disciplinary steps taken against him in 2024 violated both the ANC Constitution and South Africa’s Constitution.
The letter, issued by Kwinana Mabuza Nkome Inc., detailed various grievances, including alleged procedural irregularities and bias within the ANC’s National Disciplinary Committee (NDC) and National Disciplinary Committee of Appeal (NDCA). Zuma has given the ANC until 31 January 2025 to respond, threatening legal action if his demands are not met.
Background to Zuma’s Expulsion
Zuma was expelled from the ANC in late 2024 after launching a political party under the name of the ANC’s military wing, uMkhonto weSizwe. The ANC accused Zuma of violating its Constitution and undermining organisational unity. His expulsion was upheld by the NDCA, which reaffirmed the ANC’s commitment to “revolutionary morality and discipline.”
In a statement issued on 22 November 2024, the ANC described Zuma’s actions as “a severe breach of organisational loyalty” and an attempt to destabilise the movement. “The ANC will never permit an individual, regardless of stature or historical contribution, to undermine its mission to build a non-racial, non-sexist, democratic, and prosperous society,” the statement read.
Mbalula’s Criticism of Zuma
Mbalula criticised Zuma’s decision to issue the demand letter on the day of the ANC’s anniversary celebrations, describing it as a deliberate effort to overshadow the event. He further accused Zuma of prioritising his personal interests over those of the party and the country.
“Zuma doesn’t serve South Africa; he doesn’t serve the ANC; he doesn’t serve our people. He serves himself, and only himself. That’s what he is,” Mbalula said. “These days of misleading our people are numbered because they’ll see him for who he is.”
The JG Zuma Foundation’s Response
The JG Zuma Foundation, through its spokesperson Mzwanele Manyi, defended Zuma’s actions, describing the expulsion as a violation of his constitutional rights. The foundation accused Mbalula of engaging in “acts of intimidation, victimisation, and targeted insults” against Zuma and his representative, ANC veteran Tony Yengeni.
“This matter extends beyond individual grievances. It reflects deeper concerns about the ANC’s current trajectory,” the foundation said in a statement. It further accused the ANC of selling out its core principles by entering a coalition with the Democratic Alliance (DA) and Freedom Front Plus (FFPlus) in the Government of National Unity (GNU).
Legal Arguments and Criticisms
Zuma’s attorneys have outlined a series of alleged procedural flaws in the disciplinary process, including:
• Failure to hold hearings physically after agreeing to do so.
• Refusal to grant Zuma the opportunity to lead evidence in mitigation.
• Bias and interference by Mbalula in the disciplinary process.
• Inconsistent treatment of Zuma compared to other members accused of similar conduct.
The letter also criticised the ANC’s failure to provide a complete record of the disciplinary proceedings, arguing that this undermined Zuma’s ability to appeal the decisions effectively.
Mbalula dismissed these allegations, reiterating the ANC’s stance that Zuma’s actions were a direct attack on organisational unity. “Discipline in the ANC is non-negotiable. Zuma has chosen a path that is at odds with the values and principles of the movement,” he said.
Tony Yengeni and ANC Discipline
Tony Yengeni, a close ally of Zuma, has also come under fire from Mbalula for his public criticisms of the ANC leadership. Yengeni has been charged with bringing the organisation into disrepute through his social media posts, including his support for Zuma’s rival MK party.
“Yengeni is nothing but a political Casanova, spewing vagrant political views embraced by a few malcontents who are opposed to the ANC,” Mbalula said. He warned that other ANC leaders using social media to undermine the party would also face disciplinary action.
Political Implications
Zuma’s expulsion and his subsequent demand for reinstatement have deepened divisions within the ANC. While Mbalula and the current leadership have emphasised the importance of discipline and unity, Zuma’s supporters argue that the expulsion reflects a broader factional agenda within the party.
The ANC’s internal struggles have also drawn criticism from political analysts, who warn that continued infighting could weaken the party’s ability to address pressing national issues. “The ANC needs to focus on governance and service delivery, not internal squabbles,” said political analyst Dr Xolani Ndlovu.
ANC Celebrations Overshadowed
The timing of Zuma’s demand letter has cast a shadow over the ANC’s 113th anniversary celebrations. Held on Robben Island, the event was meant to honour the party’s legacy and reflect on its role in South Africa’s liberation struggle. However, the controversy surrounding Zuma has diverted attention from these themes.
Mbalula expressed frustration at the distraction, stating, “This day is about the ANC’s achievements and its commitment to serving the people of South Africa. We will not allow anyone to derail this important occasion.”
Looking Ahead
As the ANC grapples with the fallout from Zuma’s expulsion, the party faces mounting pressure to address its internal divisions and reaffirm its commitment to unity and discipline. Zuma’s legal threats, if pursued, could prolong the conflict and further strain the party’s resources and credibility.
The ANC’s National Executive Committee (NEC) is expected to deliberate on these issues in the coming weeks, with Mbalula promising decisive action against those who undermine the party’s values. “The ANC’s strength lies in its collective leadership and unwavering dedication to the aspirations of the people. We will not be swayed by individuals who prioritise their own interests over the movement,” he said.
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