ANC and EFF Commit to Reimbursing VBS Funds Amid Allegations

Political integrity comes under the spotlight in South Africa as two influential political parties, the African National Congress (ANC) and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), have vowed to return any funds they may have illegitimately received from the now-defunct VBS Mutual Bank. This declaration comes as high-ranking officials from both parties are embroiled in allegations linked to the infamous VBS scandal.

During a press briefing in Johannesburg, ahead of the ANC's National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting, ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula addressed concerns about the party's supposed involvement in the VBS debacle. He asserted that the ANC, South Africa's ruling party, would not shy away from its moral and legal obligations. “If the ANC got money from VBS, that money must be returned. This includes claims that there was money given to Zweli Mkhize. He has given us a report on that matter," Mbalula articulated.

Mkhize, a prominent figure within the ANC and two other senior Limpopo officials, have been implicated in the scandal as per the testimony of Tshifhiwa Matodzi, the disgraced former chairperson of VBS who has turned a state witness. While specific details concerning the involvement of Mkhize remain murky, he stands accused of having solicited R2 million from the bank.

The ANC's internal deliberations have led to a unanimous decision wherein funds inadvertently ending up in the party's coffers will be returned. Mbalula reiterated the party's stance by stating that members tied to the looting of VBS would be necessitated to step aside should they be apprehended. In what seems to be a strategy to enhance public transparency and trust, a special NEC meeting is on the cards, dedicated to further dissecting the issue.

On the flip side, the EFF, another major player in South African politics, faces similar allegations of having profited from the misfortunes of VBS Bank. Dali Mpofu, the EFF's former chairperson, reaffirmed this commitment to ethical conduct in a radio interview. He disclosed that the party had not directly received funds from VBS, although he acknowledged the possibility of indirect financial flows. The EFF is rumored to have received upwards of R16 million, which is said to have been spent on luxury goods and lavish accommodation.

Both the ANC and the EFF are at a crossroads; their willingness to rectify potential financial improprieties will be a litmus test on their commitment to legal and ethical standards. Returning such funds could represent a pivotal moment in South African politics, where accountability is placed at the forefront of political discourse.