The African National Congress (ANC) is set to discuss various political developments in the country during its National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting starting on Friday. The two-day NEC session will be followed by a lekgotla scheduled to end on Monday. Among the issues to be deliberated is the formation of the MK Party by former ANC president Jacob Zuma.
Zuma’s announcement of the MK Party and his intention to campaign for it while remaining an ANC member has sparked dissatisfaction within the ANC ranks. The NEC meeting will provide an opportunity to reflect on these political developments.
ANC spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu-Motsiri emphasized the need for the party to stay focused on its goals and not be distracted by discussions around the MK Party.
Several ANC leaders, particularly in KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape, have expressed differing views on Zuma’s new political venture. ANC KZN Provincial Secretary Bheki Mtolo criticized Zuma, calling him a liability to the ANC and suggesting that he owes apologies for weakening the party during his presidency. On the other hand, Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane highlighted Zuma’s failure to win elections even in his own ward.
ANC NEC member Dr. Zweli Mkhize appealed for calm, discouraging party members from engaging in insulting language. He acknowledged the right of individuals to form their own political parties, urging a more measured response within the ANC.
The NEC meeting is expected to address these internal tensions and provide a platform for party members to discuss the broader political landscape in South Africa. Additionally, the ANC NEC Lekgotla that follows will discuss various matters, including the content of the State of the Nation Address scheduled to be presented by President Cyril Ramaphosa on February 8.