In South Africa, the ANC (African National Congress) on Friday 2 April paid tribute to Winnie Mandela, the figure in the fight against apartheid. This festival icon, nicknamed “the mother of the nation” by South Africans, died three years ago at the age of 81. President Cyril Ramaphosa used this ceremony to call on the party to remain united, while the ANC is in the midst of a crisis.
as reported from Johannesburg, Claire Bargelès
Covid demands that only a few ANC leaders come to lay a wreath and then attend the religious ceremony on Good Friday. On this occasion, President Cyril Ramaphosa made a point of emphasizing that party unity was one of Winnie Mandela’s struggles.
“Times are also very difficult politically for the African National Congress. And she would have been the first to say that we must continue to advocate for the unity of the ANC, because it also helps to unite the South African nation. ”
At the beginning of the week, a new resolution was adopted: it obliges each accused party to resign within thirty days. What creates disagreement and exacerbates the differences between the different factions. They are big now between the camp of Ramaphosa and the camp of Secretary-General Ace Magashule, prosecuted for corruption and pressed towards the exit.
For Veli Mofokeng, an activist member of the party’s youth union, it is time for the ANC to clean up its ranks: “There are members who act for their personal interest. But I’m glad we’re working on the party’s recovery by tackling corruption. ”
But for others, the case is far from settled, as Nomvula Mokonyane, a member of the party’s executive committee, believes: “Those who leave office must do so voluntarily. During these 30 days, it will be discussed to examine the basis for the allegations made. ”
Ace Magashule has not yet said his last word and intends to discuss with historical figures from the party and local representatives at the end of the month.
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