The African National Congress (ANC) Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula addressed a community gathering in the Boland Region of the Western Cape on Saturday, where he made a passionate plea for the party to move on from former President Jacob Zuma’s divisive influence.
Mbalula criticized Zuma for his recent statements, in which he encouraged supporters to follow him and his new political party, the uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK) Military Veterans Association
Mbalula argued that Zuma’s actions and rhetoric are harmful to the party and its legacy, and urged ANC members to distance themselves from his divisive behavior. He pointed to former President Thabo Mbeki as an example of a leader who was ousted from the party but remained loyal and continued to work for the organization’s interests.
“Former President Thabo Mbeki was kicked out of the ANC like a dog, but he never betrayed the ANC. He stayed with the organization and continued to work for its success,” Mbalula said. “We must learn from his example and prioritize the unity and integrity of our party.”
Mbalula’s remarks come at a time of heightened tensions as the Elections are around the corner. His comments are seen as a call to action for ANC members to reclaim the party’s values and move forward in a positive direction.