Jacob Zuma has vehemently rejected his expulsion from the African National Congress (ANC), asserting that the current leadership under President Cyril Ramaphosa lacks the authority to remove him from the party. This defiance follows the recent decision by the ANC’s National Disciplinary Committee of Appeal, which upheld Zuma’s expulsion for allegedly violating the party’s regulations. The expulsion stems from his public support of the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party, a political group he founded last year, which the ANC claims undermines the party’s unity and values.
Speaking on behalf of the former president, spokesperson Mzwanele Manyi emphasized that Zuma has been a loyal member of the ANC for over 65 years and has no intention of relinquishing his membership. “For us, President Zuma’s wish is to go to the grave as an ANC member,” Manyi remarked in an interview with Newzroom Africa. He went on to criticize the ANC under Ramaphosa, dismissing it as a “shadow” of the ANC that Zuma once knew and served under leaders like Oliver Tambo. Manyi also questioned the timing of the expulsion announcement, claiming it was a pre-determined decision made weeks earlier.
As Zuma prepares to consult with his legal team, political allies, and family on the next steps, Manyi made it clear that the former president is not backing down. Zuma plans to address the nation soon, offering his perspective on his future direction. Despite being expelled in July, the foundation and Zuma’s inner circle remain steadfast in their belief that his legacy and long-standing membership in the ANC cannot be dismissed by the current leadership.
The ANC, however, stands firm in its decision, accusing Zuma of gross ill-discipline and disloyalty. Party spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu-Motsiri condemned his actions, stating that his support for a rival political entity directly contradicted the core principles of the ANC. The party reiterated that no individual, no matter their historical contribution, could be allowed to destabilize the organization or its mission to build a non-racial, democratic society. The battle between Zuma and the ANC leadership is far from over, with significant political implications still to unfold.
