ANC Gauteng Chair Panyaza Lesufi was summoned to Luthuli House on Monday to address senior national party officials after his recent public comments criticizing the Government of National Unity (GNU). Lesufi, a key figure in the African National Congress (ANC), sparked debate last week when he openly criticized the GNU, which involves power-sharing agreements with opposition parties.
During a media interview, Lesufi expressed his dissatisfaction with the GNU, arguing that it has failed to address South Africa’s socio-economic challenges. He warned that the coalition structure was diluting the ANC’s core mandate and preventing the party from fulfilling its promises to voters.
His remarks raised concerns among ANC national leaders, particularly as the party works to maintain its coalition government balance. A senior ANC official noted that while internal debate is encouraged, Lesufi’s public critique could jeopardize the party’s position ahead of the 2024 national elections.
Lesufi was called in for a meeting with the ANC’s National Executive Committee (NEC) to clarify his position and discuss the possible consequences of his statements on party unity. The meeting was also viewed as an opportunity for the ANC leadership to reaffirm its stance on coalition politics as the election approaches.
Lesufi’s outspoken comments have fueled a broader debate within the ANC regarding its future direction and its involvement in coalition governments. With internal tensions rising in several provinces, the party’s leadership will need to carefully manage these divisions to maintain unity ahead of the 2024 polls.