In a decisive move, the African National Congress has rejected Jacob Zuma’s appeal for reinstatement following his controversial political maneuvers.
South Africa’s A.N.C. Solidifies Expulsion of Jacob Zuma Amid Political Turmoil
South Africa’s A.N.C. Solidifies Expulsion of Jacob Zuma Amid Political Turmoil
Former President’s Allegations and Rival Party Leadership Fail to Reunite with A.N.C.
The African National Congress (A.N.C.), South Africa's ruling party, has firmly upheld its expulsion of former president Jacob Zuma, officially dismissing his appeal for re-admittance as a member. This decision comes after the party severed ties with Zuma in July for forming a competing political party, uMkhonto weSizwe (the M.K. party), as part of a campaign to challenge the A.N.C. leading into an important election.
Despite his long-standing history with the A.N.C., having joined as a teenager and been imprisoned during apartheid alongside icons like Nelson Mandela, Zuma’s actions were deemed a betrayal by party leaders. The A.N.C. characterized his establishment of the rival party as an example of “the highest form of ill-discipline” and noted his behavior has attempted to undermine the party’s efforts to innovate and regain credibility amid declining support.
Zuma's expulsion was largely motivated by escalating tensions and his active campaign efforts for his new party, which secured third place in a recent parliamentary election, winning 58 seats. While he sought a personal hearing to contest his expulsion and requested transparency regarding the party’s internal processes, the A.N.C. remained steadfast, emphasizing that no member, regardless of their historical significance, was above accountability.
Following his presidency, Zuma faced numerous scandals and legal challenges, including a 15-month imprisonment for contempt of court related to a judicial inquiry into corruption. His political resurgence, marked by leading the M.K. party, only highlights the ongoing discontent with the current administration led by President Cyril Ramaphosa.
As the political landscape continues to shift, Zuma remains determined to counter the A.N.C.’s influence, framing his recent moves as a bid to reclaim control from his political adversaries.
