Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Des Erasmus
Published on 2024-02-24 07:54:53
The African National Congress (ANC) is facing criticism for its approach to members implicated in corruption as the party gears up for the upcoming elections. The party seems to be offering a “get out of jail free” card to those involved in graft, as long as they assist in the party’s campaign efforts.
In a recent interview with the Mail and Guardian in Durban, ANC KwaZulu-Natal provincial chairperson Siboniso Duma indicated that the party is willing to support members advocating for the return of corruption-accused figures such as former Limpopo leader Danny Msiza, as long as there is merit to their case.
Duma emphasized the importance of fairness and the need to assess each case on its own merits. The party seems to be struggling with inconsistency in applying its step-aside resolution, especially with the addition of Zandile Gumede, another senior party member facing corruption allegations, to the campaign machinery.
Despite the criticism, party chairperson Gwede Mantashe defended Gumede’s involvement in the campaign, stating that she still holds membership in the legislature but has been limited in her duties under the step-aside rule. Gumede, a former mayor in KwaZulu-Natal, was forced to step down from her position as regional chairperson after being arrested on charges related to a lucrative waste tender.
Similarly, Danny Msiza was implicated in the VBS Mutual Bank scandal and was indicted on multiple corruption charges. Both figures have been a cause of concern for the ANC, especially as the party struggles to maintain support in the face of growing opposition from other political factions.
Gumede’s return to the ANC fold seems to be influenced by the support of former president Jacob Zuma’s political party, which poses a threat to the ANC’s dominance in the province. Despite concerns about fairness and justice, the party seems to prioritize political expediency in utilizing Gumede’s popularity to sway voters in its favor.
Duma reiterated the party’s commitment to natural justice but also emphasized the periodic nature of the step-aside resolution. He argued that Gumede had served her time under the resolution and should be allowed to resume her duties within the organization.
Overall, the ANC’s approach to members implicated in corruption reflects a delicate balance between political pragmatism and moral integrity. As the party navigates through internal strife and external challenges, it remains to be seen how its decisions will impact its standing with the electorate.
Read the original article on Mail & Guardian
