A major legal and political showdown is underway as the African National Congress (ANC) defends its decision to expel former president Jacob Zuma. The ANC officially opposed Zuma’s court challenge on July 25 at the Johannesburg High Court, where he is seeking to overturn his removal from the party.
Zuma claims his expulsion earlier this year was unfair, citing procedural errors and political motives. He is asking the court to reinstate his ANC membership immediately. The ANC, however, argues that Zuma violated party rules by publicly supporting the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party and appearing on its candidate list for the 2024 elections.
The dispute goes beyond membership—it’s seen as a test of the ANC’s ability to enforce discipline, especially after a high-ranking member openly defied the party. ANC spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu-Motsiri stated that the party will strongly defend its decision in court, emphasizing that no member, including former presidents, is above party rules.
Zuma’s legal team is expected to argue that he was not given a fair hearing before his expulsion. The case could have wider political consequences, particularly in KwaZulu-Natal, where tensions between the ANC and Zuma-backed MK Party are already high.
As the court battle unfolds, it may deepen divisions in South Africa’s political landscape, reshaping alliances ahead of future elections.