Former South African President Thabo Mbeki has penned an explosive letter to the current Deputy President, Paul Mashatile, condemning the African National Congress (ANC) for protecting President Cyril Ramaphosa from the Phala Phala probes[1]. In the letter, Mbeki criticized the ANC’s handling of the issue, warning that their actions could have significant repercussions for the party[3].
Mashatile, who was appointed as the Deputy President of South Africa in a recent cabinet reshuffle by President Ramaphosa[2], has been tasked with bringing back a sense of stability to the country. Mbeki’s scathing letter, however, highlights the internal turmoil and challenges faced by the ruling party.
Mbeki has been vocal about his concerns regarding South Africa’s current state, particularly in light of the country’s record-high unemployment, crime trends, and energy insecurity[5]. The former president’s letter to Mashatile underscores his dissatisfaction with the ANC’s performance and handling of pressing issues.
This is not the first time Mbeki has expressed his disapproval of the ANC’s actions. Previously, he refrained from campaigning for the party between 2009 and 2016, although he still voted for it, citing the party’s false message as the reason for his decision[6].
Mbeki has also recently dismissed claims by Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema that he was conspiring with former spy boss Arthur Fraser to oust President Cyril Ramaphosa[7,8].
As the ANC faces increasing scrutiny and criticism, Thabo Mbeki’s letter to Paul Mashatile adds to the growing list of concerns regarding the party’s leadership and direction. It remains to be seen how Mashatile and the ANC will respond to the former president’s critique and whether it will prompt any significant changes within the ruling party.