ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula Initiates Forensic Probes to Combat Party Leaks

Amidst growing concerns regarding confidential information leaks to journalists and opposition parties, the African National Congress's (ANC) Secretary-General, Fikile Mbalula, has announced a new stringent approach to safeguarding internal party communications. Fikile Mbalula, who is no stranger to discipline within the party ranks, has initiated the formation of a permanent committee dedicated to conducting forensic investigations of leaked information emanating from the ANC's National Executive Committee (NEC) and National Working Committee (NWC) meetings.

The revelation of this decision came on the heels of an NEC meeting where the problem of leaks was addressed. Mbalula, who has been vocal about his discontent with the issue since his appointment in 2022, has flagged the inaccuracy of some leaked information as a primary concern. By forensically auditing the dubious information flows, the ANC hopes to root out the sources of leaks, some of whom are believed to be misleading journalists for factional purposes.

While specifics about the investigation methods remain under wraps, Mbalula emphasized the party's right to defend itself by any means permissible by law, under the pressuring gaze of media and public concerns regarding the potential infringement on the Protection of Personal Information (Popi) Act and media freedom.

In parallel, the ANC has confirmed the establishment of an integrity commission appeal structure, manned by respected party elders, to address appeals against the recommendations of the integrity commission. This development aligns with the party's larger goal of reinforcing its foundational values and addressing the challenges reflected in recent election results – all part of a broader introspective exercise aimed at assessing the ANC's commitment to its historic social mandate.

Furthermore, Mbalula is set to embark on a nationwide tour, engaging with regional branches as part of the process of finalizing a comprehensive diagnostic report on the ANC's organizational state. This report, expected to be concluded by 2025, will contribute to the assessment of the ANC's members and structural integrity. The ANC is also considering an initiative that would require prospective members to either write an essay or undergo an interview elucidating their motives for joining the party, in a bid to ensure commitment to its core principles.

The ANC's comprehensive approach to reform signifies a candid recognition of internal challenges and demonstrates a readiness to take corrective action to uphold its image and effectiveness as South Africa's ruling party.