The African National Congress (ANC) has made a clear statement regarding its unanimous decision to suspend Jacob Zuma, the party’s former president. This decision was reached by the party’s 87-member National Executive Committee (NEC) without any dissent.

The announcement made on Monday by the ANC to temporarily revoke Zuma’s membership stems from actions that allegedly tarnished the party’s reputation. Specifically, Zuma’s open support for the newly established uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MK Party) and his public criticism of ANC president Cyril Ramaphosa were cited as violations of the party’s constitution.

Fikile Mbalula, the ANC Secretary-General, emphasized the collective agreement within the NEC, including the KwaZulu-Natal caucus known for its supportive stance towards Zuma. Mbalula highlighted the unity and swift consensus within the NEC:

“KZN was part of this discussion and they contributed to the discussion and in the end it was a unanimous decision of the NEC that we must take this direction and it didn’t take us day and night to arrive at that conclusion.”

Mbalula also noted that while the question of Zuma’s permanent expulsion remains open, the ANC, as a democratic entity, ensures Zuma has the right to contest his suspension.

The MK Party: A Controversial Emergence

The emergence of the uMkhonto weSizwe Party has sparked significant controversy, with the ANC labelling it a counter-revolutionary endeavor aimed at destabilizing the current democratic government. Over the weekend, a rally by the MK Party included statements about bringing the country to a halt should they not secure a two-thirds majority in upcoming elections. Mbalula criticized the MK Party for promoting a dangerous narrative and announced plans to challenge their registration through the Electoral Court.

“We have also challenged from the point of view of the trademark of uMkhonto weSizwe. The existence of this party as uMkhonto weSizwe is the trademark of the ANC.”

The ANC’s stance not only addresses the immediate issue of Zuma’s suspension but also broader concerns over political stability and the integrity of democratic processes in South Africa. The situation unfolds against a backdrop of political maneuvering and debates over the ANC’s future direction and the safeguarding of South Africa’s democratic institutions.

This unfolding story reflects the ANC’s internal challenges and its efforts to maintain cohesion and principle in the face of external pressures and divisive figures.