Tony Yengeni, a veteran of the African National Congress (ANC), is facing charges for comments he made that have been deemed damaging to the organization. The ANC’s Secretary-General, Fikile Mbalula, confirmed on Monday that Yengeni would be held accountable for his actions, emphasizing that any member who brings the party into disrepute would be disciplined. Yengeni, a former member of the ANC’s National Executive Committee (NEC), has been a prominent figure in the party, though his relationship with the leadership has been marked by tension in recent times.
Last year, Yengeni played a role in representing former ANC president Jacob Zuma before the ANC’s disciplinary committee after Zuma publicly endorsed a rival political party ahead of the May 29 elections. This recent development is part of a broader pattern of discord between Yengeni and the ANC leadership. Mbalula, in a post on X (formerly Twitter), stated that the party would not tolerate undisciplined behavior from its members, regardless of their rank or status. He made it clear that anyone who undermines the ANC would be subjected to formal disciplinary processes, where they would be required to justify their actions.
Mbalula did not mince words in his condemnation of Yengeni, referring to him as a “political Casanova” and accusing him of spreading misguided political views that resonate only with a small faction opposed to the ANC. He revealed that he had personally informed Yengeni about the impending charges, both by SMS and a direct phone call. Mbalula further stated that Yengeni would be brought before the ANC’s disciplinary structures to explain his conduct, stressing the importance of maintaining discipline within the party.
The ANC, according to Mbalula, expects all members to engage in constructive dialogue and offer diverse views, but attacking the organization and casting doubts on its leadership would not be tolerated. He pointed to other senior ANC officials, including Yengeni and Obed Bapela, who are also set to face charges for their actions. Mbalula’s remarks also referenced previous tensions between him and Yengeni, which have included public disputes. Notably, Mbalula had previously suggested that Yengeni had issues with alcohol and described him as “ungovernable,” while Yengeni, in turn, responded by warning Mbalula to avoid dragging his name through the mud.
This latest development adds to the ongoing internal struggles within the ANC, where disciplinary issues have surfaced as a significant point of contention. As the party grapples with maintaining unity and order, Mbalula’s firm stance on discipline sends a strong message that the ANC leadership is willing to take action against those who challenge the party’s cohesion and reputation.
