ANC dismisses reports on SACP election bid deliberations, emphasizes internal consultation
via The Citizen1 min read
The ANC has dismissed reports regarding its special National Executive Committee NEC deliberations concerning the South African Communist Party's SACP decision to contest elections independently. The ANC stated that decisions on the SACP's election bid will be guided by "disciplined internal consultation" with alliance partners, rather than anonymous leaks. The SACP resolved in December 2024 to contest outside the ANC umbrella, citing the ANC's embrace of neoliberalism. SACP general-secretary Solly Mapaila announced this on January 6, marking a significant shift in the Tripartite Alliance, which includes the ANC, SACP, and Cosatu. ANC national spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu expressed concern over reports based on anonymous sources and speculative interpretations, clarifying that these do not represent the ANC's official position. Bhengu confirmed that the ANC has been engaging the SACP on its resolution and consulting with other alliance partners. Following the special NEC meeting, ANC national officials have been mandated to engage the SACP leadership on the deliberation outcomes and to consult further with other alliance partners. This process will also involve briefings to ANC formations and structures. The ANC plans to issue a comprehensive communiqu茅 once consultations are complete.
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The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education has launched an independent investigation into allegations that teaching posts within the department are being sold for money and sexual favors. The probe was initiated after a viral social media video surfaced, reportedly showing the wife of the department's head of communications, Muzi Mahlambi, accusing him of involvement in these activities. In the video, she claims female teachers either paid money or exchanged sexual favors to secure employment. Head of Department Nkosinathi Ngcobo ordered the independent investigation, emphasizing that the department views these allegations seriously as they impact public administration integrity and public trust. The department stated the investigation will be fair, credible, and impartial, considering all relevant evidence without fear or prejudice. They urged the public to provide any credible information to the investigating body or law enforcement authorities, committing to act decisively on the findings.
The MK party has defended its decision to appoint eThekwini's former mayor Zandile Gumede as the party's deputy convenor in KwaZulu-Natal, despite her ongoing trial for fraud, corruption, and money laundering related to a R320 million Durban Solid Waste tender. Gumede's appointment was announced at a press briefing in Durban. MK party secretary-general Sibonelo Nomvalo stated that the party is a political organization and not prosecutors, and therefore, criminal cases do not prevent a member from joining or taking a position. He added that questions about Gumede's legal issues are not relevant to her appointment. Political analyst Theo Neethling noted that Gumede's defection is significant because she remains on trial, and her charges did not hinder her acceptance by the MK party. Neethling suggests the party prioritizes electoral advantage and organizational strength over reputational risks, especially in securing metropolitan strongholds like eThekwini. This approach aligns with the party's narrative, which, given its leader Jacob Zuma's own legal challenges, often portrays criminal charges as politically motivated.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed South Africa鈥檚 condolences following the death of former Qatari Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who passed away on Sunday, 12 July 2026, at 74 years old. Ramaphosa described Sheikh Hamad as a visionary leader whose "legacy of peace, prosperity and global influence continues to inspire the world." He extended sympathies to Qatar's Royal Family, government, and people, highlighting South Africa's close friendship with Qatar. Ramaphosa noted that Qatar, under Sheikh Hamad's leadership, became a model of peace, development, prosperity, and global influence. Sheikh Hamad's 18-year rule saw Qatar transform from an economy reliant on oil to the world's largest exporter of liquefied natural gas, with one of the highest per capita incomes, achieved through strategic investment in productive assets, financial institutions, infrastructure, and human capital.