Former President Jacob Zuma has been summoned to appear before the African National Congress’s (ANC) disciplinary committee next Tuesday. This follows his announcement that he intends to vote against the ANC in the forthcoming elections, in violation of the party’s constitution.
The hearing is scheduled to occur at Luthuli House, the ANC’s central office in Johannesburg, marking a significant moment in the party’s current internal conflict.
How/Why Do You Spend Time and Party Resources Trying To Discipline A Person That Is Not A Member Of Your Organization? 🤔
“Zuma Is Not A Member Of The ANC; He’s Been Suspended… He’s Suspended, Subjected To The Disciplinary Process. He’s Not Our Member As We Speak Now.”
— Mr. Tshweu (@TshweuMoleme) March 19, 2024
Zuma’s Shift in Political Allegiance
Zuma, who now leads the Umkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party, declared his support for this new political entity last December. At the launch, he emphatically stated, “I cannot and will not campaign for the ANC of Ramaphosa. My conscience will not allow me to lie to the people of South Africa and pretend that the ANC of Ramaphosa was the one of [late former ANC leaders Albert] Luthuli, [Oliver] Tambo, and [Nelson] Mandela.”
“I cannot and will not campaign for the ANC of Ramaphosa. My conscience will not allow me to lie to the people of South Africa and pretend that the ANC of Ramaphosa was the one of [late former ANC leaders Albert] Luthuli, [Oliver] Tambo, and [Nelson] Mandela,” Zuma said.
Despite his leadership role in the MK Party, Zuma maintains that he remains an ANC member, though his allegiance at the polls will be with the MK Party. The ANC views this as a contravention of its constitutional guidelines.
Upcoming Electoral Context
The national and provincial elections are set to be held on May 29, 2024, a date that looms large as the ANC grapples with internal dissent and Zuma’s high-profile defection.
Party Response and Procedural Actions
In response to his actions, the ANC enacted a temporary suspension of Zuma in January under Rule 25 of the party’s constitution, citing his overt support for the MK party. This marks a pivotal moment as the ANC decides how to handle the complexities of loyalty and dissent within its ranks.
Support for Zuma
MK Party Spokesperson Nhlamulo Ndhlela has expressed firm support for Zuma, stating that he will confront the charges against him with readiness and resolve. Ndhlela also revealed that supporters of the MK Party plan to assemble outside the ANC headquarters to back Zuma during his disciplinary hearing, signaling a potentially significant gathering.
This disciplinary hearing represents not just a personal challenge for Zuma but a crucial juncture for the ANC as it navigates the implications of political loyalty and heritage in the run-up to a critical electoral test.
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