Senior veterans tied to uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK), the armed wing of the African National Congress (ANC) during the anti‑apartheid struggle, have publicly disowned an endorsement of Deputy President Paul Mashatile as the next leader of the party, exposing fissures in the ANC’s internal succession debate.
The group, made up of respected struggle stalwarts, said the endorsement reportedly made by an MK commander does not reflect the views of the wider community of veterans who fought against apartheid. Their rejection highlights growing unease among seasoned ANC members about how the party is choosing its leadership ahead of the critical 2027 national elective conference.
Veterans have long positioned themselves as guardians of the party’s values and history. In recent years, they have also been vocal in challenging party leadership over issues such as internal corruption and governance failures, with some even quitting the ANC in protest in prior years.
The dispute over the endorsement follows broader tensions within the ANC about its direction and leadership choices. Deputy President Mashatile has been seen as a contender for the ANC presidency, even as other party bodies like the Youth League and Women’s League have taken differing positions on leadership and renewal.
Political analysts say the public rejection by MK veterans could influence how grassroots members view Mashatile’s bid, especially among older party loyalists who see themselves as custodians of the ANC’s liberation legacy. With internal contests set to shape the future of South African politics, such rifts may signal deeper challenges for unity ahead of elections and party conferences.