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Tensions in the African National Congress (ANC) have exploded again—and this time, the blast is coming straight from the top. ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula didn’t mince his words this weekend in Cape Town when he launched a searing attack on former President Jacob Zuma, branding him a “sellout” and accusing him of stealing Umkhonto we Sizwe (MK).
The strong statement came as the ANC leadership gathered to meet with its Western Cape structures. While the party wrestles with post-election challenges and threats from opposition parties, Mbalula’s focus zeroed in on one man—Zuma.
In his words, Zuma “sold us out.” This wasn’t just a political jab. It was a clear declaration of betrayal, echoing deep wounds within the ANC since Zuma’s open alignment with the newly formed MK Party, which has splintered support and caused massive electoral fragmentation.
For those unfamiliar, Umkhonto we Sizwe was originally the armed wing of the ANC during the struggle against apartheid. But today, its name has been controversially revived by Zuma’s MK Party—a move Mbalula sees as a betrayal of the ANC’s legacy. "He stole our name, our history, and turned it into a weapon against us," Mbalula reportedly told members, his voice tinged with disappointment and defiance.
And his frustration wasn’t only about symbolism. The MK Party's emergence shook the electoral base in several regions during the recent national elections. Many believe Zuma’s breakaway was a calculated move that cost the ANC dearly, especially in KwaZulu-Natal.
Adding fuel to the fire, Zuma’s supporters argue that the former president is merely reclaiming a legacy he helped shape. But Mbalula and many in the ANC see it differently. To them, it’s political hijacking disguised as heritage.
Read also: Why GNU Threats from the DA Are Keeping ANC on Edge.
In recent weeks, the ANC has been navigating rocky terrain—internally and nationally. The formation of the Government of National Unity (GNU) has caused friction not just with rivals but within the ANC itself. But Mbalula made it clear that while other battles exist, Zuma’s betrayal is personal.
"He’s not fighting for the people—he’s fighting for himself," Mbalula added, referencing Zuma’s continued criticisms of the ANC’s direction and leadership. The deepening divide is no longer something that can be brushed aside.
While this dramatic outburst might come across as political theatre, it has real-world implications. With local elections looming and coalition politics becoming the new normal in South Africa, the ANC cannot afford more internal fractures. But with Zuma still commanding significant support in pockets of the country, especially in KZN, Mbalula’s words may deepen the rift further.
As for ordinary citizens watching these developments unfold, many are left wondering—who is truly fighting for the people? The ANC’s legacy is long and complicated. And Zuma, once its top leader, now stands accused by his own comrades of betrayal. South African politics, once again, feels like a Shakespearean play—full of loyalty, betrayal, and battles for legacy.
My take? It’s tragic when giants who once walked side by side in the struggle now accuse each other of theft and treason. Whether Zuma truly betrayed the ANC or is simply reshaping his role in a changing political world, one thing is clear: South Africa’s political drama isn’t cooling off anytime soon.
Let us know what you think—
Was Mbalula right to call Zuma a sellout? Or is this just political noise?
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Tags: Zuma, Fikile Mbalula, ANC, MK Party, Political Fallout, South Africa, GNU Crisis, Cape Town Politics, Zuma vs ANC, Umkhonto we Sizwe
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