ANC Expels Jacob Zuma Amid Political Party Scandal

In an unprecedented turn of events, the African National Congress (ANC) has officially expelled its former president, Jacob Zuma, causing a stir within South Africa's political landscape. The fallout comes after Zuma's recent actions, which saw him publicly backing and eventually leading the uMkhonto Wesizwe Party (MKP), resulting in a significant blow to the ANC in the May 29 elections.

Zuma, who had previously faced numerous allegations and charges during his presidency, once again came under fire, not just from political adversaries but from his own party. The ANC's decision came after the elections, where the party noticed a concerning dip in its national vote share down to 40%, with Zuma's MKP surprisingly carving out a substantial 14%.

The internal party turmoil peaked when Zuma was brought before the ANC disciplinary committee upon two grave charges: collaborating with another political party and joining an organization not affiliated with the ANC. The matter escalated quickly, and hearings were conducted virtually to establish the truth behind these allegations.

Documents leaked from the ANC's national disciplinary committee indicate that Zuma was found in violation of the ANC Constitution on several accounts, leading to his expulsion. He now has a three-week window to challenge the committee's decision through an appeal.

Veterans from within the ANC have expressed their viewpoints on the matter, with the president of the ANC Veterans' League, Snuki Zikalala, labeling the expulsion as a necessary decision that was "long overdue". In an interview with Newzroom Afrika, Zikalala underscored the party's commitment to due process but emphasized that Zuma's antics of declaring himself an ANC member despite leading another party were unacceptable and deceptive to millions.

The event has marked another chapter in the history of the ANC, a party that prides itself on unity and discipline. Zuma's expulsion underscores the party's stance against acts of insubordination, as it struggles to maintain its once-dominant position in South African politics. As the weeks progress, all eyes will be on the former president's next move: Will he appeal, and what could be the consequences for his political career and the dynamics within the ANC?