Mantashe Brands MK Party a Rebel Group as Sanco Decides Zuma's Fate

The African National Congress (ANC), South Africa’s ruling party, is grappling with internal dissension as former president Jacob Zuma's alignment with a new political entity sparks controversy. The ANC's national chairperson, Gwede Mantashe, has openly critiqued the recently established uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party, labeling it a rebel movement. This denomination comes amid the backdrop of the ANC's 112th-anniversary celebrations, emphasizing the schism within the organization and its implications for South African politics.

Tensions came to a head with Mantashe expressing his views to SABC News in KwaMhlanga, Mpumalanga. His articulation suggests the party regards Zuma's endorsement of the MK party as self-expulsion from the ANC. The notion echoes statements by ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula, emphasizing that Zuma's voluntary departure negates the need for formal expulsion proceedings. Zuma has openly rejected Cyril Ramaphosa's presidency and, since December 16, has been impressing upon the public to withdraw their support from the ANC in the upcoming 2024 general elections, rallying them behind the MK Party instead.

Jacob Zuma, also the KwaZulu-Natal chairperson for the South African National Civic Organisation (Sanco), stands at the center of this political whirlwind. Sanco's National Executive Committee (NEC) is poised to deliberate on their stance concerning Zuma's advocacy for the MK Party. The Sanco president, Richard Hlophe, affirmed at an ANC birthday event that the organization was committed to supporting the ANC into the 2024 elections, in line with their conference resolutions.

Dissonance within the political fabric extends to Hlophe's declaration of intended serious measures against any leaders endorsing emergent political parties. The MK Party, on the other hand, is witnessing burgeoning support, particularly within Durban townships and Mpumalanga, suggesting a looming shift in voter dynamics as the general elections draw near.

Life Monini, Cosatu's provincial chairperson, alluded to the hardships awaiting those who depart from the ANC, implicitly commenting on the frigid political climate external to the party's umbrella. Monini underscored the importance of respecting the party and its decisions, highlighting an ethos that prioritizes collective alignment over individual endeavors.

This development signals a crucial intersection in South African politics, where long-standing allegiances are being tested and new alliances are forming. As the ANC prepares to solidify its campaign strategy in anticipation of the 2024 general elections, the party's leadership is making it clear that unity and fidelity to the party's vision remains paramount amidst the turmoil.