A leaked conversation allegedly between Deputy Minister of Health Dr. Gwen Ramokgopa and political strategist Brown Mogotsi has sent shockwaves through the African National Congress (ANC), after claims surfaced that the two were involved in an underhanded plan to tarnish the image of ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula through coordinated media manipulation.
According to sources close to the matter, the conversation — which reportedly took place over a private call — detailed an orchestrated strategy to “discredit and destabilise” Mbalula’s standing within the party ahead of crucial internal meetings. In the purported exchange, Ramokgopa and Mogotsi allegedly discussed fabricating negative stories about Mbalula and leaking them to selected journalists sympathetic to their faction.
Insiders suggest that the motive behind the scheme was political revenge linked to growing tensions within the ANC’s top leadership. Mbalula, known for his outspoken and often confrontational stance, has clashed with several party figures over policy direction and factional loyalties.
The alleged recording, which has not yet been authenticated, was circulated among senior ANC members late Thursday night, sparking internal outrage. Several party officials have reportedly called for an immediate investigation into the authenticity of the conversation and the individuals involved.
Mbalula’s office has not officially commented on the matter, though an aide close to him described the alleged plot as “a desperate attempt by power-hungry individuals who fear accountability.” The aide further stated that Mbalula remains focused on strengthening the party’s unity and preparing for the 2026 local government elections.
Meanwhile, the Health Ministry has neither confirmed nor denied the authenticity of the recording. Dr. Ramokgopa’s spokesperson said she was “aware of the allegations” but declined to make a detailed statement, describing the reports as “politically motivated fabrications designed to sow division.”
Political analysts have warned that if proven true, the conversation could deepen existing divisions within the ANC and damage public confidence in government officials. “If a senior deputy minister is found to be participating in a media smear campaign against the Secretary-General, it would raise serious ethical and political questions,” said analyst Khaya Ndhlovu.
The ANC’s Integrity Commission is reportedly expected to review the claims in the coming days, with insiders hinting that both Ramokgopa and Mogotsi may be summoned to explain themselves.
As tensions rise, South Africans await the party’s official response — one that could either expose another layer of political intrigue or confirm the persistence of factional battles within the ruling party.
