ANC KZN Secretary Bheki Mtolo Criticizes Zuma, Says His Presidency Cost Votes

The African National Congress (ANC) in KwaZulu-Natal is grappling with the legacies of its former leaders. Recent remarks by the party’s provincial secretary, Bheki Mtolo, underscore the deep divisions that former President Jacob Zuma's tenure has sown within the party's ranks.

During a forum in the Inkosi Bhambatha region of KZN, Bheki Mtolo delivered a hard-hitting critique of Jacob Zuma's time in office, suggesting it had significantly dented the ANC's popularity and vote share. Without mincing words, Mtolo drew a parallel between speaking truth to power and the sensitivity of accusing wrongdoers, using a rape analogy that is sure to stir controversy, particularly considering Zuma's past rape trial.

The timing of Mtolo's criticism coincides with internal party discussions over the role of past and present leaders—especially in the wake of comments made by ANC national secretary-general, Fikile Mbalula, who called out falsities surrounding the Nkandla scandal and the protective stance of some leaders towards Zuma.

Zuma's acquittal in the 2006 rape case notwithstanding, the comparisons made by Mtolo come as Zuma embarks on a new political venture with the Umkhonto we Sizwe party, occasionally attacking current ANC President Cyril Ramaphosa. Mtolo challenges the perception that the decline in ANC support began under Ramaphosa's leadership, pointing to statistical evidence of the downturn beginning as far back as 2009, under Zuma's presidency.

Mtolo pressed the issue that the onus of apology lies with Zuma, for weakening the ANC handed to him by Thabo Mbeki and further indicated that Zuma's efforts were insufficient to cultivate loyalty within his home region of Nkandla.

Under Ramaphosa's leadership, Mtolo contends, the ANC has achieved more for its people, citing advancements in National Health Insurance, the implementation of a basic income grant, and the establishment of a national minimum wage as evidence of a more responsive and people-centered governance.

Zuma's public disavowal of the ANC efforts under Ramaphosa has sparked a broader debate about the state of the party and its future. With these newly minted criticisms by a high-ranked party official, the ANC faces a period of reflection and potential realignment as South Africa heads towards future electoral seasons.