PRETORIA – In a recent interview on 702, African National Congress (ANC) national chairperson, Gwede Mantashe, has asserted that former President Jacob Zuma should face disciplinary charges within the party.
However, Mantashe acknowledged that this has become impractical due to the imminent general elections.
Mantashe expressed concern over Zuma‘s recent public commentary and actions, indicating a rupture in ties with the ANC.
Despite Zuma’s claims of remaining an ANC member, his active involvement with the newly formed uMkhonto weSizwe party and mobilization against the governing party have raised eyebrows within ANC ranks.
![South Africa's former President Jacob Zuma addresses a public rally for his new party uMkhonto weSizwe party recently. [Photo: Fani Mahuntsi/ Getty Images]](https://rosgwen24.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/image-24.jpeg "Mantashe calls for disciplinary action against problem Zuma 2")
Speaking on the matter, Mantashe stated, “He is speaking the language of an ANC of Ramaphosa, meaning when he was president, we were basically his slaves, we were working for him, an ANC of Jacob Zuma.”
The veteran ANC chairperson emphasized that no individual is above the ANC.
Mantashe further explained the constraints in taking immediate disciplinary action against Zuma, stating, “My own view is that lessons were given in the ANC, including by him, is that nobody is bigger than the ANC in the ANC.”
He suggested a pragmatic approach, advising the documentation of Zuma’s public statements against the ANC.
This documentation, according to Mantashe, will serve as a formal record that can be presented to Zuma to confirm the termination of his ANC membership.
With Zuma actively campaigning against the ANC in his role with the uMkhonto weSizwe party, the party leadership is navigating a delicate situation, attempting to balance internal discipline with the political realities of the upcoming general elections.
