Prominent ANC Members Ousted from Parliament Amid Election Setback
Image Source: via Kaya959
Published by Everything ZA News
In a significant reshuffling of political power, Police Minister Bheki Cele and Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Naledi Pandor are among the high-profile African National Congress (ANC) members who will not be returning to Parliament. This development comes after the ANC suffered a considerable loss of 70 seats in the National Assembly, compelling the party to enter coalition talks with other political entities to form a governing coalition.
The political landscape shift has also seen the departure of other notable figures such as Thandi Modise, Thulas Nxesi, and Zizi Kodwa from their ANC roles. Kodwa, embroiled in a corruption scandal, resigned from his position as Sport, Arts, and Culture Minister on Wednesday, 05 June.
Despite proclaiming his innocence, Kodwa has stepped aside from his duties as a member of both the National Working Committee (NWC) and the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the ANC with immediate effect. His resignation follows formal charges being brought against him and his initial court appearance.
The allegations against Kodwa center on a bribery scandal involving former EOH boss Jehan Mackay. It is claimed that Mackay made cash payments totaling approximately R1.7 million to Kodwa between February 2014 and April 2015. These illicit transactions reportedly funded luxury accommodations, loans, and other personal expenses for Kodwa.
This turbulence within the ANC arises as the party grapples with the aftermath of its electoral losses. The reduction in seats has necessitated urgent coalition negotiations to maintain a functional government. As the ANC works to secure partnerships, the focus shifts to rebuilding trust and navigating the challenges posed by internal and external scrutiny.
The full list of new Members of the National Assembly and Provincial Legislatures will be presented to Chief Justice Raymond Zondo on Thursday, 06 June, marking a new chapter in South Africa’s political narrative. As the country watches these developments unfold, the ANC’s ability to adapt and coalesce with other political factions will be crucial in shaping its future and governance.
