The African National Congress (ANC) in the Eastern Cape has been plagued by infighting, and the latest development has seen secretary Lulama Ngcukayitobi deny resigning from his position. A letter purporting to be from Ngcukayitobi, dated 28 March, has been circulating among delegates, addressed to the ANC Eastern Cape provincial executive committee (PEC), secretary-general Fikile Mbalula, and the national executive committee.
In the letter, Ngcukayitobi cites the lack of organisational discipline among the collective he is leading as the reason for his decision. However, he has since distanced himself from the letter, claiming it is “fake”. This is not the first time Ngcukayitobi has been at the centre of a resignation storm, having previously resigned in 2024 only to be persuaded to remain in his position by national leaders.
Delegates React to News of Resignation
When the news of Ngcukayitobi’s supposed resignation broke out among delegates at the International Convention Centre (ICC), there was jubilation. The delegates were being addressed by provincial chairperson, Oscar Mabuyane, who officially announced the postponement of the conference. National convener to the Eastern Cape, Mmamoloko Kubayi, had to call for order and told the delegates to wait for her to verify the letter first.
Kubayi addressed the delegates, saying: “The letter that was circulating, comrades, I have called the secretary and he said it is fake.” The delegates, who were also wondering about Ngcukayitobi’s whereabouts, shouted: “Uphi? [Where is he].” News24 witnessed Ngcukayitobi driving out of the ICC after a special PEC meeting, having addressed delegates in his Land Cruiser earlier.
What This Means for the ANC in the Eastern Cape
The developments in the Eastern Cape are a reflection of the deeper issues plaguing the ANC. The party has been struggling with infighting and discipline, which has affected its ability to effectively govern. As the country approaches the 2024 elections, the ANC will need to address these issues to regain the trust of the electorate. According to the Independent Electoral Commission of South Africa, the ANC will need to ensure it presents a united front to voters.
- The ANC in the Eastern Cape has been plagued by infighting and discipline issues.
- Ngcukayitobi’s supposed resignation has added to the uncertainty in the province.
- The party will need to address these issues to regain the trust of the electorate ahead of the 2024 elections.
