Former president Jacob Zuma has alleged that ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula sent threatening text messages to his legal representative, Tony Yengeni, just before his disciplinary hearing. The claims form part of Zuma’s court challenge to overturn his expulsion from the ruling party.
In court documents, Zuma revealed that Yengeni received late-night messages from Mbalula questioning his involvement in the case. One message reportedly asked, “Who does he think he is to destroy the ANC?” Zuma’s legal team argues these communications were presented as evidence of interference but were ignored by the ANC’s disciplinary structures.
The former president, who was expelled in late 2024 after launching the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party, claims his hearing was fundamentally unfair. His grievances include delayed access to legal representation, last-minute changes to the ANC’s legal team, and the dismissal of key evidence in his defense.
Zuma’s application further alleges that Mbalula’s messages intimidated Yengeni, compromising his ability to provide effective representation. The ANC has dismissed these claims, maintaining that Zuma violated the party’s constitution by campaigning for a rival political organization while still a member.
The high court case could set important precedents for internal ANC disciplinary processes, with Zuma seeking to prove that procedural irregularities and alleged intimidation warrant nullifying his expulsion. The outcome may influence how the party handles future cases involving high-profile members.
Mbalula has previously criticized Zuma’s actions as self-serving, while the ANC insists its disciplinary procedures were conducted fairly. As the legal battle continues, the dispute highlights deepening divisions within the former liberation movement.
