South Africa's ruling party, the A.N.C., has formally rejected Jacob Zuma's appeal against his expulsion, citing his formation of a rival political party as grounds for disloyalty. This decision highlights ongoing tensions within the party leading up to crucial upcoming elections.
A.N.C. Upholds Jacob Zuma’s Expulsion Amid Political Tensions
A.N.C. Upholds Jacob Zuma’s Expulsion Amid Political Tensions
The African National Congress denies former President Zuma's appeal, solidifying the party's stance against intra-party dissent.
South Africa's ruling party, the African National Congress (A.N.C.), has reaffirmed its decision to expel former president Jacob Zuma, officially denying his attempts to overturn the expulsion, which had initially taken place in July. Zuma's campaign efforts on behalf of a competing political party during the lead-up to the May elections ultimately led to his removal, being labeled a betrayer by the A.N.C.
Zuma's appeal included demands for a personal hearing, rather than a virtual one, and a call for transparency regarding the party's disciplinary procedures. The A.N.C., which has governed South Africa since apartheid's end three decades ago, maintained that Zuma's establishment of a rival faction had undermined the party’s integrity at a crucial time of renewal.
The A.N.C. stated, “Mr. Zuma’s behavior exemplifies the highest form of ill-discipline,” underscoring their position that individual actions cannot jeopardize the collective goals of the party. Zuma has been a longtime member of the A.N.C., having joined as a teenager and having served imprisonment alongside Nelson Mandela for their fight against apartheid.
Despite resigning under pressure from his leadership as party president in December 2017, Zuma has continued to play a significant role in politics, founding the new party uMkhonto weSizwe, known as the M.K. party, which gained 58 seats in the latest parliamentary elections. This outcome reflects Zuma's persistent appeal among supporters, even as the ruling A.N.C. has experienced a significant decline in public support.
Zuma claims his political endeavors are aimed at reclaiming the A.N.C. from current leadership, most notably President Cyril Ramaphosa, propelling a significant dynamic within South African politics as the nation heads towards upcoming elections.
