In a major shift in South Africa's political dynamics, Police Minister Bheki Cele publicly condemned former president Jacob Zuma and accused him of leaking confidential information about the African National Congress (ANC). He issued a stern warning if the details were revealed. The smoldering conflict emerged in the wake of President Zuma's support for the newly formed Umkhonto Wesizwe party and his expressed dissatisfaction with current president Cyril Ramaphosa.
Cele's accusation against Zuma
Mr Cele's critical remarks were made to ANC members in Pinetown, where he highlighted his once close relationship with Mr Zuma during his exile. Looking back on the bond between the two, Cele said: “Zuma was my only commander.” He accused him of being ungrateful despite the fact that he enjoys state benefits such as a large annual salary, protection of VIPs, and use of state-owned vehicles.
Zuma's unresolved grievances
Further highlighting the rift, Mr Cele said he could not accept Mr Zuma's absence from the party leadership, a role he had played since 1991. According to Cele, this incompetence has been a key driver of Zuma's recent actions and public statements. dissatisfaction.
ANC's message: party before individual
Mr Cele returned his focus to the party, urging ANC members not to be swayed by Mr Zuma's actions and to focus on the upcoming elections. He reiterated that no one is better than the ANC, regardless of their position in the party. His comments resonate with broader discourse within the ANC, which emphasizes the party's primacy over individual ambition and action.