Helen Zille, the Federal Chairperson of the Democratic Alliance (DA), has blamed Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi for growing tensions between the ANC and the DA in the province.
This revelation follows Lesufi’s recent summons to the ANC’s headquarters, Luthuli House, where he faced scrutiny over critical remarks concerning the party’s governance coalition, known as the Government of National Unity (GNU).
Reports indicate that ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula demanded an explanation from Lesufi, particularly concerning comments that seemed to undermine the ANC’s collaborative efforts with the DA.
Zille, speaking on Newzroom Afrika, accused Lesufi of orchestrating the removal of Tshwane mayor Cilliers Brink, contrary to the ANC leadership’s apparent hesitance on this matter.
“Lesufi was summoned on Monday to explain his comments and what he had said and done. So, there are huge tensions and huge differences of opinion about how to proceed.
“I do know that the national ANC wants stability in the metros... Panyaza has refused to cooperate with that project,” she added, referring to the ANC’s desire for stabilisation in the metros.
The tensions underscore a significant rift within the ANC regarding its approach to governance alongside the DA, with the potential ramifications for party unity becoming increasingly evident.
Zille’s comments highlight concerns that Lesufi’s actions are seen as detrimental to the ANC’s broader operational interests - a fracture that could have repercussions in upcoming governance decisions.
In a swift and pointed reaction, Solly Mapaila, the secretary general of the South African Communist Party (SACP), voiced his unwavering support for Lesufi, calling for his dismissal “unwarranted” and asserting that such attempts should be met with resistance.
Addressing the Red October launch event in Mpumalanga, Mapaila expressed ire towards what he perceived as DA interference in the affairs of the ANC, further complicating the party’s internal dynamics.
“Why should Panyaza be punished because of the instructions of the DA?” he questioned, illustrating the growing frustrations among some party factions.
The Star