Jacob Zuma, South Africa’s former president, has once again thrust himself into the centre of political drama. Expelled from the African National Congress (ANC), Zuma has vowed to fight “tooth and nail” to reclaim his membership, insisting that he remains a loyal member of the party he helped shape for decades.
Speaking in Durban over the weekend, Zuma told supporters: “I am ANC. I will never leave the ANC. They can expel me on paper, but I will fight this injustice in court.” His words drew loud cheers from the crowd, many of whom wore T-shirts emblazoned with his face.
The Expulsion
The ANC’s decision to expel Zuma followed months of tension between him and the party leadership. His open support for the newly formed uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) party, which contested elections against the ANC, was seen as a betrayal. ANC officials argued that Zuma’s actions undermined party unity and violated its constitution.
But Zuma has refused to accept the ruling. He insists that his support for MK was not about abandoning the ANC, but about “saving the soul of the liberation movement.”
Legal Battle Looms
Zuma’s lawyers have confirmed that they are preparing to challenge the expulsion in court. The case is expected to test the ANC’s internal disciplinary processes and could set a precedent for how political parties handle dissent.
Political analyst Ralph Mathekga explained: “Zuma is playing a dangerous game. By refusing to accept the expulsion, he is forcing the ANC into a public confrontation. This could weaken the party further, especially ahead of the 2026 municipal elections.”
Zuma’s Legacy
Zuma’s defiance is not new. Throughout his career, he has survived scandals, corruption charges, and even a prison sentence for contempt of court. His ability to mobilise grassroots support remains unmatched.
In KwaZulu-Natal, Zuma still commands loyalty among many voters, particularly in rural areas. His supporters see him as a victim of political persecution, while critics argue that he is exploiting populism to stay relevant.
ANC’s Dilemma
The ANC faces a difficult choice. Expelling Zuma may strengthen its image as a party that enforces discipline, but it risks alienating thousands of his supporters. Already, MK has gained traction in KwaZulu-Natal, threatening to erode ANC dominance in the province.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has remained cautious, saying only that “the ANC must uphold its constitution.” But insiders admit that Zuma’s defiance is a headache for the leadership.
Wider Implications
Zuma’s battle is more than just a personal fight. It reflects the broader crisis within the ANC, which has struggled to maintain unity in the face of corruption scandals, factionalism, and declining voter support.
If Zuma succeeds in overturning his expulsion, it could embolden other members to challenge party decisions. If he fails, MK may become a permanent fixture in South African politics, drawing disillusioned voters away from the ANC.
For now, Zuma remains defiant. As he told supporters: “They can try to silence me, but I will never be silenced. The ANC belongs to the people, not to a few individuals in Luthuli House.”
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