Jacob Zuma Foundation Fires Back at Mbalula Over Threats Against ANC Veterans Yengeni and Bapela

by Hope Ngobeni

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The Jacob Zuma Foundation has issued a warning to African National Congress (ANC) Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula following his remarks about disciplinary action against senior party figures Tony Yengeni and Obed Bapela. Mbalula’s comments, made earlier this week, suggested that both members would face disciplinary hearings for their critical views of the party, particularly on social media. According to Mbalula, Yengeni and Bapela’s actions were a threat to the ANC’s reputation and could lead to expulsion from the party.

Yengeni, a prominent ANC stalwart, was labeled a “political casanova” by Mbalula after he publicly questioned the party’s decision regarding the venue for the January 8 celebrations, which marked the ANC’s 113th anniversary. The event, to be held at Mandela Park Stadium in Khayelitsha, faced public criticism for its choice of a venue that critics felt was too small to accommodate such a significant occasion. Yengeni’s tweet about the celebration further fueled tensions within the party, and Mbalula made it clear that those undermining the ANC in public forums would be held accountable.

Bapela, the former deputy chair of the ANC’s international relations subcommittee, had already been removed from his position after his unauthorized trip to Morocco last year. While there, Bapela spoke on behalf of the ANC without prior approval, defying the party’s stance on Morocco’s occupation of Western Sahara. This breach of protocol further aggravated Mbalula, who suggested that such actions would not be tolerated and that both Yengeni and Bapela would be subjected to the ANC’s disciplinary processes, with the possibility of their membership being revoked.

In response to Mbalula’s statements, the Jacob Zuma Foundation voiced its concerns, suggesting that the party leadership was unfairly targeting individuals who had voiced dissent. Foundation spokesperson Mzwanele Manyi dismissed Mbalula’s threats, calling him “an exasperated fellow who does not know what to do.” Manyi went on to point out that Mbalula seemed unaware that the ANC’s National Executive Committee (NEC) is not the party’s highest decision-making body. He also argued that both Yengeni and Zuma had been targeted due to their alignment with former President Jacob Zuma, particularly since Yengeni had represented Zuma during a disciplinary hearing last year.

The controversy surrounding Yengeni, Bapela, and Zuma highlights growing divisions within the ANC, especially as the party struggles with internal tensions and external criticism. While Mbalula remained firm in his stance that those who do not align with the party’s values will face consequences, the Jacob Zuma Foundation’s comments reflect a broader sense of discontent among some ANC members. The party’s leadership is currently under intense scrutiny as it celebrates 113 years since its founding, with President Cyril Ramaphosa scheduled to deliver his address at the anniversary celebration in Khayelitsha on Saturday.

In a surprising move on Wednesday, former President Zuma used the occasion of the ANC’s anniversary to demand reinstatement as a member of the party. Zuma, who was expelled for supporting the uMkhonto weSizwe Party, argued that his expulsion was unlawful. His request to rejoin the ANC is seen by some as a strategic maneuver to remind the party of his influence and to challenge the party’s current leadership.

As the ANC grapples with these internal disputes and the mounting pressure to demonstrate unity, Mbalula’s warnings and Zuma’s re-emergence have added fuel to the ongoing power struggle within the party. With tensions rising, it remains to be seen how the ANC will navigate these challenges while preparing for future elections and aiming to present a united front to the South African electorate.

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