The African National Congress (ANC) has strongly denied reports of internal conflict during a special National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting. The party refuted claims that tensions flared over comments allegedly directed at former President Thabo Mbeki regarding the Phala Phala saga.
Allegations of Internal Friction
Reports surfaced over the weekend alleging that tensions rose during a closed-door meeting in Cape Town. It was claimed that deputy international relations minister Thandi Moraka criticized Mbeki for his public commentary on the Phala Phala matter.
According to reports from Sunday World, Moraka accused Mbeki of posturing as a “super leader” whose views were treated as “alpha and omega” within certain sections of the ANC. Moraka, who is viewed as closely aligned with President Cyril Ramaphosa, reportedly expressed concern over senior veterans discussing sensitive internal issues publicly rather than using party structures.
The Phala Phala Context
The reported dispute allegedly occurred during discussions regarding the ANC’s communication strategy. This followed a recent Constitutional Court judgment that ordered Parliament to establish an impeachment inquiry into the Phala Phala scandal.
Former President Mbeki has been openly critical of how the ANC has handled the matter since 2022. This friction exists alongside a broader legal battle involving the presidency.
ANC Rejects Media Reports
ANC national spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu dismissed the reports as “fabricated and unsubstantiated,” stating the party rejects them with contempt. Bhengu asserted that the alleged confrontations did not occur during the special NEC meeting.
“The ANC believes this article stands as an example of how the media should not operate. Freedom of the press carries with it a responsibility to report truthfully, fairly and ethically, not to deliberately sow division through anonymous and unverifiable claims,” Bhengu said.
Ramaphosa’s Stance and Legal Challenges
Despite calls for his resignation following the apex court’s ruling, President Cyril Ramaphosa has stated he will not step down. He maintains that he has not stolen public money, committed any crime, or violated his oath of office since a criminal complaint was filed in June 2022.
Ramaphosa intends to proceed with a 2022 plan to challenge the findings of the independent panel. This decision to revive a judicial review of the Section 89 Independent Panel Report has been sharply condemned by the EFF, which claims the President is using legal mechanisms to avoid accountability.
Potential Developments
The situation may lead to further legal challenges as Ramaphosa pursues the judicial review of the panel’s findings. This process could result in continued pressure from opposition parties like the EFF.
the party’s internal stability may be tested as Parliament moves to establish the impeachment inquiry ordered by the Constitutional Court.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the ANC deny the reports of NEC tensions?
National spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu stated that the reports were fabricated and unsubstantiated, claiming no such confrontations occurred during the meeting.
What specific accusations were allegedly made against Thabo Mbeki?
It was reported that Thandi Moraka accused Mbeki of acting as a “super leader” and criticized him for commenting on sensitive internal matters publicly.
Does President Ramaphosa intend to resign?
No. President Ramaphosa has stated he will not resign, as doing so would pre-empt a process defined by the constitution.
Do you believe senior party veterans should use public platforms to critique internal party decisions?
