African National Congress (ANC) Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula has announced that five senior members of the party will face disciplinary processes over allegations that their actions damaged the organisation’s image and credibility.
Speaking during a media briefing at Luthuli House on Tuesday, Mbalula said the decision followed discussions held during a recent meeting of the ANC’s National Executive Committee (NEC), the party’s highest decision-making body between conferences.
Among the individuals named were former Police Minister Bheki Cele and former minister Sisisi Tolashe. Mbalula, however, did not provide detailed information about the allegations against the members, stating only that the disciplinary procedures were already underway.
He explained that the ANC leadership was concerned about conduct by certain members that may have negatively affected the party’s reputation. The identities of the other three implicated members were not publicly disclosed, with Mbalula indicating that internal party processes would handle further communication on the matter.
The ANC Secretary-General also stressed that the disciplinary action does not automatically mean suspension or expulsion from the organisation. Instead, the affected members will be given an opportunity to appear before the party’s disciplinary committee to respond to the allegations and present their side of the story.
Mbalula said the ANC remained committed to enforcing discipline and accountability within its structures, regardless of the seniority or status of those involved.
Political analysts believe the move forms part of the ANC’s broader efforts to rebuild public trust and strengthen internal discipline ahead of the 2026 elections. The party has faced growing criticism in recent years over internal divisions, governance concerns, and declining electoral support.
At the time of the announcement, neither Bheki Cele nor Sisisi Tolashe had publicly commented on the disciplinary proceedings. The other members linked to the matter had also remained silent.
The latest developments highlight the ANC’s continuing attempts to address internal challenges and restore confidence among supporters and voters.