The African National Congress (ANC) is reportedly undergoing a significant internal overhaul, described by insiders as a “drastic cleanse,” that may leave only a handful of leaders at the helm. Among those expected to remain are Fikile Mbalula, Mavuso Msimang, Snuki Zikalala, and President Cyril Ramaphosa. This controversial move has ignited debate about the party’s future and its ability to recover from deep-seated divisions.
An anonymous source within the party revealed that the restructuring aims to sideline members deemed obstacles to the current leadership’s vision. “They are calling it a cleanse, but in reality, it’s a political purge. Only a few chosen leaders will remain while the rest are sidelined,” the source alleged.
This development comes against the backdrop of growing factionalism within the ANC, which escalated following the incarceration of former President Jacob Zuma in 2021. Zuma’s imprisonment sparked unrest among his supporters, intensifying divisions within the party.
Despite his legal challenges, Zuma’s influence within the ANC persists. Political analyst Thandi Mkhize remarked, “Zuma’s legacy and network make it difficult for the ANC to move past him completely. He is not done with the ANC.”
Critics warn that the “cleansing” could backfire. Former ANC member Carl Niehaus cautioned, “By pushing out experienced members, the party risks losing its identity and alienating its base.”
Others view the restructuring as a calculated effort by Ramaphosa to consolidate power ahead of the pivotal 2024 general elections. Supporters of the president argue that cleaning up the party is a necessary step to restore public trust and credibility.
The ANC’s internal power struggle unfolds at a time when the party’s popularity is waning. Whether this bold restructuring will rejuvenate the party or deepen its instability remains uncertain. Meanwhile, Zuma’s enduring influence casts a long shadow over the ANC’s future trajectory.
