Fikile Mbalula addresses media at the Cape Sun Hotel, defending the ANC’s step-aside rule amid allegations against former Minister Senzo Mchunu
(The Post News)- Fikile Mbalula, the ANC’s secretary-general, has stood firm in defending the party’s step-aside rule, amid questions about its consistent application following former Minister Senzo Mchunu’s recent suspension by President Cyril Ramaphosa over corruption allegations.
The step-aside rule requires ANC members who are formally charged with serious crimes to temporarily step down from their party and government roles until the allegations are resolved.
Speaking during a media briefing at the Cape Sun Hotel, where the ANC’s National Working Committee met with the Provincial Executive Committee, Mbalula highlighted the vital role the rule plays in maintaining accountability within the party.
Senzo Mchunu, who attended the NWC meeting, faces allegations of corruption and misconduct raised by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi. In response, President Ramaphosa has appointed a judicial inquiry to investigate these claims.
Concerns have surfaced among some individuals within the party’s structures at Luthuli House about whether the step-aside rule is being applied evenly. However, Mbalula dismissed these worries, clarifying that the rule takes effect only when members are formally arrested or appear in court.
“When last did you see people supporting each other going to court with ANC t-shirts? You get arrested, you stand on your own. The step-aside rule applies,” Mbalula said. He added, “Those who misrepresent the situation incorrectly claim that the rule doesn’t apply to Senzo Mchunu, but the president did put him aside with immediate effect.”
While Mchunu has stepped aside from his government role, Mbalula stressed that he remains an elected ANC member and continues to serve within the party.
Mbalula also emphasized that Mchunu has the right to present his side of the story, consistent with the legal principle of audi alteram partem, which requires that all parties be heard before a final decision is made. An independent judge and the judicial commission appointed by the president will thoroughly assess the facts.
“Let’s allow the process to follow; this is what all South Africans look forward to. Even we are looking forward to that,” he added.
Pointing to the party’s commitment to accountability, Mbalula noted that even former Secretary-General Ace Magashule failed to successfully challenge the step-aside rule.
The step-aside rule remains a crucial mechanism for the ANC to uphold integrity and public trust, signaling the party’s commitment to rooting out corruption and ensuring accountability within its ranks as South Africa continues to demand transparent leadership.
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