ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula has defended the party, insisting the ANC is “not corrupt” and is actively fighting corruption every day.
Speaking at the 9th Ehlanzeni Regional Conference in Mbombela over the weekend, Mbalula urged members to lead by example, embrace ethical conduct, and abandon practices that have tarnished the ANC’s image.
Mbalula said the party no longer shields members facing corruption charges. “You are caught, you are charged,” he told delegates.
He criticised past practices where members would attend court together wearing party t-shirts, saying, “That thing has come to an end.”
Corruption Scandals Loom Large
According to IOL News, the ANC continues to grapple with allegations of high-level corruption, including findings from the Zondo Commission of Inquiry into State Capture.
The commission revealed widespread graft involving ANC-linked officials, implicating senior leaders in looting billions from state institutions.
Despite promises to clean up, public trust in the party has plummeted. Scandals tied to COVID-19 relief funds, Eskom procurement, and municipal budget misuse have severely damaged the ANC’s reputation.
Mbalula Warns of Accountability
Acknowledging the party’s checkered past, Mbalula called corruption “dangerous” and cited the Zondo Commission as a painful but necessary reckoning.
“Billions were recovered. Assets were stolen. Some were frozen,” he said.
He warned that the days of unchecked behaviour by ANC leaders are over.
“Respect the ANC. The time when people behave as they wish is over now. This starts with the NEC. If NEC does not give leadership, the rest will follow their example,” Mbalula said.
Infighting and Public Insults Undermine ANC Credibility
Mbalula condemned infighting and public insults on social media, saying they further erode the party’s credibility.
While he pledged reform, critics argue that words alone will not restore the ANC’s standing; only accountability, transparency, and decisive action can.
Can the ANC restore public trust after repeated graft scandals?
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