ANC National Executive Committee member Tony Yengeni has reignited internal party tensions by demanding a commission of inquiry into President Cyril Ramaphosa’s controversial CR17 campaign finances, challenging recent court rulings that exempted the funds from disclosure.
The outspoken ANC veteran shared a news headline about political funding transparency laws that excluded Ramaphosa’s 2017 leadership campaign finances, captioning it with a call for judicial scrutiny. “We need a commission to investigate how court decisions affect governance,” Yengeni declared in a social media post accompanied by photos of him addressing supporters.
This latest salvo targets what Yengeni views as unequal accountability, coming after courts ruled the CR17 donations – which propelled Ramaphosa to the ANC presidency – need not be disclosed. The firebrand politician’s move capitalizes on lingering skepticism about the millions raised for Ramaphosa’s campaign, despite judicial clearance.
Political analysts see this as both a continuation of Yengeni’s longstanding criticism of Ramaphosa and a strategic play within ANC factional politics. “Yengeni is tapping into genuine public concerns about political funding transparency while advancing his faction’s agenda,” said University of Johannesburg political analyst Professor Sipho Seepe.
The call comes as Ramaphosa faces mounting governance challenges, including economic stagnation and ongoing electricity crises. Yengeni’s public challenge – amplified through social media images showing him speaking authoritatively before ANC banners – reinforces his role as internal party critic.
While the presidency maintains the CR17 matter was lawfully resolved, opposition parties have seized on Yengeni’s remarks. “Even ANC stalwarts acknowledge the double standards,” said DA spokesperson Siviwe Gwarube.
Legal experts caution that reopening settled court matters could undermine judicial authority. “Unless new evidence emerges, this risks appearing as political theater rather than genuine accountability,” warned constitutional law professor Pierre de Vos.
As ANC factions maneuver ahead of the 2024 elections, Yengeni’s broadside ensures the CR17 controversy remains alive, reflecting deeper divisions within the ruling party about leadership and transparency standards. The presidency had not responded to requests for comment at time of publication.
