Cape Town – Former secretary-general of the ANC Ace Magashule has expressed dissatisfaction over former minister Zizi Kodwa’s appointment as an ANC MP despite facing corruption charges.
Kodwa, who resigned as sports, arts, and culture minister and appeared in court for corruption related to the state capture inquiry, was sworn in on Tuesday.
According to Times Live, Magashule’s party, the African Congress for Transformation (ACT), criticised the decision, suggesting it highlights the selective application of the ANC’s “step aside” rule.
The ACT spokesperson, Mohau Khumalo, argued that this rule targets those advocating for radical economic policies while favouring President Ramaphosa’s faction.
“The ACT and Magashule have always maintained the step aside rule was and still is for the selected few, particularly those who advocate for radical economic freedom, nationalising the central bank and other entities, and the land issue. Those who reject white supremacy have always been targeted. Others are handled with soft gloves, specially those who belong to [President Cyril] Ramaphosa’s faction,” Khumalo said.
Meanwhile, the ANC Veterans League this week also criticised the swearing-in of Kodwa as a member of Parliament, calling it a misapplication of the party’s step-aside rule.
According to EWN, in a letter to Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula, the elders expressed their disapproval, emphasising that Kodwa should not have been allowed to return to Parliament.
They reminded Mbalula of their earlier calls to address those implicated in state capture and corruption on ANC candidate lists.
The ANC Veterans League has criticised the swearing-in of ANC NEC member Zizi Kodwa to Parliament earlier this week stating that it is incomprehensible. https://t.co/knURqnhoTp
— SABC News (@SABCNews) June 27, 2024
The Veterans League also argued that the step-aside rule, which is intended for those facing corruption charges, should apply to Kodwa and suggested that the rule needs to be reviewed.
The Veterans League secretary-general Ilva Langa said that Kodwa’s personal interests should not be put above that of the ANC, SABC reported.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
