The leader of the ANC Veterans League, Snuki Zikalala, has spoken out about what he believes is a secret group within the party working to remove President Cyril Ramaphosa before his term is finished. He stated that these individuals are operating in clandestine ways, using private correspondence, holding secret meetings, and subtly influencing others to undermine the president.
Zikalala made it clear that the Veterans League will not support such activities. He explained that this group’s actions only lead to confusion, division, and internal conflict within the ANC. The League’s position is that President Ramaphosa should be allowed to complete his full term, and any effort to disrupt this is unacceptable.
He referred to these covert plotters as “dark forces” and declared that the League would distance itself from them and their schemes. According to Zikalala, these forces aim to destabilize the party from within and foster disunity. He cautioned that anyone working in secret to remove the president is acting contrary to the fundamental principles and values of the ANC.
This situation arose following the circulation of a letter within an Eastern Cape ANC WhatsApp group. This letter proposed the removal of the current national executive committee and its replacement with a new team led by former president Thabo Mbeki. The letter later surfaced during a Veterans League educational event where Mbeki was present. While some suggested this event might have been intended to weaken Ramaphosa’s standing, Zikalala strongly refuted these claims, emphasizing the League’s non-involvement in any secret plots.
He also pointed out that the identity of the letter’s author remains unknown and urged them to come forward to clarify their motives. Zikalala reiterated that the Veterans League would never align with these “dark forces” or endorse plans that jeopardize the president’s leadership.
Furthermore, Zikalala addressed rumors suggesting that Ramaphosa might step down after South Africa relinquishes the G20 presidency. He clarified that the president has made no such announcements and that these rumors are being spread by individuals seeking to create unnecessary turmoil and apprehension.
Zikalala also clarified that there is no animosity between Ramaphosa and Mbeki. He stated that Mbeki actively participates in ANC meetings and raises concerns in a constructive and conventional manner. He stressed that open discussions about issues are distinct from attempts to undermine the president.
Regarding the future leadership of the ANC, Zikalala emphasized the importance of upholding democratic principles. He dismissed the notion of an uncontested conference, asserting that all individuals wishing to contest leadership positions should have the freedom to campaign openly.
In conclusion, Zikalala suggested that the letter likely originated from a single, undisclosed individual, whom he urged to reveal themselves. He reiterated that the Veterans League would not engage in secret agendas and would consistently oppose anyone working to divide the ANC.