African National Congress (ANC) Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula has issued a firm warning to ANC Youth League (ANCYL) President Collen Malatji, urging him to refrain from insulting people and to conduct himself with discipline befitting a leader of the organisation.
Mbalula’s remarks come amid growing concern within the ANC over the tone and conduct of some Youth League leaders, particularly in public statements and on social media platforms. Speaking to the media, the Secretary-General emphasised that while robust debate and political activism are central to the ANC’s traditions, personal insults and disrespectful language undermine the movement’s values and damage its public image.
ANC SG Fikile Mbalula tells Youth League President Collen Malatji to stop insulting people. pic.twitter.com/zUyxQ6QGRj
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“The Youth League is a school of political leadership. It must produce disciplined, respectful and principled leaders, not individuals who think insulting others is revolutionary,” Mbalula said. He stressed that leaders at all levels of the ANC have a responsibility to set an example, especially at a time when the organisation is working to rebuild trust with the public.
Mbalula reminded Malatji and other Youth League officials that political engagement should focus on advancing ideas, policies and the interests of young people, rather than resorting to attacks on individuals. He warned that continued misconduct could attract organisational consequences in line with ANC disciplinary processes.
The ANC Youth League has historically played a significant role in shaping political discourse and grooming future leaders within the movement. However, in recent years, the league has faced criticism for factionalism, inflammatory rhetoric and actions seen as inconsistent with the ANC’s renewal agenda.
According to Mbalula, the ANC is committed to restoring unity and organisational discipline across its structures, including the Youth League. “We cannot be calling for renewal and unity on one hand, while on the other hand our leaders are busy insulting people and creating divisions,” he said.
The Secretary-General also called on senior ANC leaders to provide guidance and mentorship to younger cadres, ensuring that political differences are handled with maturity and respect. He reiterated that freedom of expression within the ANC does not give anyone licence to demean or humiliate others.
Malatji has not publicly responded to Mbalula’s comments. However, the intervention by the ANC’s top administrator signals a clear message that the leadership expects a higher standard of conduct from its youth leaders as the party navigates a critical period in South African politics.
The ANC has repeatedly stated that organisational discipline and ethical leadership are key pillars of its renewal programme, aimed at strengthening the movement and restoring public confidence ahead of future electoral contests.
