Two prominent ANC members, Senzo Mchunu and Malusi Gigaba, have publicly criticized the party’s leadership and its decision to form a government of national unity. Their comments have triggered a strong response from the party’s secretary-general, Fikile Mbalula.
Gigaba stated that the ANC’s national executive committee has failed and that the party should not have invited opposition parties into government. He called for a special conference to examine the party’s mistakes.
Mchunu, who is currently suspended from his duties, compared the ANC to a person on the edge of a cliff and warned it is close to collapse.
These public criticisms are seen as a significant break from the party’s usual discipline and a direct challenge to President Cyril Ramaphosa. However, both figures making these statements are themselves facing serious allegations.
Gigaba was previously found to have lied under oath and was accused of improperly helping the Gupta family with citizenship documents when he was a minister. Mchunu is suspended pending an investigation into alleged connections to a criminal network.
Their actions have led to questions about their motives, with some observers suggesting they are attempting to position themselves for personal gain as the party faces internal turmoil.