Former ANC President Jacob Zuma has expressed his intention to remain a member of the ANC with the goal of taking over its leadership and “rescuing” the party from what he perceives as a deviation from its founding values.
Zuma made this revelation during a podcast earlier this week, acknowledging that despite his public criticisms and recent expulsion from the party, he still wants to be part of the ANC to restore it to its original ideals.
Last week, Zuma served the ANC with a letter demanding the reinstatement of his membership by January 31, threatening legal action if the request is not met. Through his lawyer, Thabo Kwinana, Zuma argued that irregularities during the disciplinary process would likely be confirmed by an independent legal review.
Zuma explained that staying within the ANC would give him the opportunity to make changes from the inside. He emphasized that without being a member, his influence would be limited. However, he stated that while he seeks to remain in the party, he would not vote for the ANC, as his goal is to eventually take over the leadership and realign the party with its original principles.
This move is not a new development, as Zuma has previously criticized the current ANC leadership. His latest statements, however, suggest a more calculated plan to regain control and shift the party’s direction from within.
Zuma’s comments are expected to heighten tensions within the ANC, which has been facing ongoing internal conflicts and struggles for power. As the party approaches its next elective conference, his comments are likely to fuel further divisions.
Political analysts have weighed in on Zuma’s intentions. Professor Siphamandla Zondi from the University of Johannesburg noted that Zuma believes the current ANC leadership is aligned with what he considers to be interests of “White Monopoly Capital” and the liberal right, and he aims to challenge this faction.
Analyst Sandile Swana, however, believes that Zuma’s return to the ANC is unlikely, citing the party’s stance against dual membership and the ongoing opposition to his reentry.
