Magashule’s expulsion described as a precedent-setting moment for the ANC

June 13, 2023 104

Political analyst, Dr Sam Koma, says Ace Magashule’s expulsion from the ANC is a precedent-setting moment in the history of the governing party.

Koma says the former ANC Secretary General is the first former member of the ANC top 6 to have faced a disciplinary process that resulted in him being kicked out of the party.

Yesterday, the ANC announced the decision after Magashule missed his Friday deadline to submit reasons why the party should not oust him.

The ANC’s disciplinary committee found Magashule guilty of violating several rules of the party’s constitution for refusing to apologise to ANC President, Cyril Ramaphosa, after he attempted to suspend him from the party. He also refused to apologise to party structures.

Magashule had attempted to suspend the ANC President shortly after his suspension from the day-to-day running of the ANC in May 2021 over corruption claims.

In that failed move, Magashule claimed to have the authority to do so as the party’s secretary-general.

Dr Koma says the ANC’s decision to expel him demonstrates that no leader is above the governing party.

Political Analyst, Professor Susan Booysen, also believes the decision was necessary.

Booysen says the party has previously been criticised for moving slowly to deal with members who are asked to step aside.

Booysen says Magushele’s expulsion could however be a double-edged sword for the governing party.

She believes that while the ANC can use it to try and prove its seriousness about renewing the organisation, ANC President, Cyril Ramaphosa’s detractors within the governing party can also use it to challenge his leadership.

Magashule is, however, not fazed by the party’s move.

He says he will hold a media briefing next week to address the public on this development.

Magashule is currently embroiled in a corruption scandal over his alleged involvement in a multi-million-rand asbestos tender scandal in the Free State, which allegedly occurred during his tenure as the provincial Premier.

He has denied any wrongdoing.

Written by: Nokwazi Qumbisa

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