ANC infighting shows Busi may be about to go

Every time the ANC issues another press release “clarifying” its official position or warning “comrades” not to contradict “official” policy, we think of a version of the lines in a ’70s pop song: “Clowns to the left of me, looters to the right, here I am, stuck in the middle with you…”

But sadly, it is not a laughing matter because, every time it happens, the gulf between the two main ANC factions – those loyal to President Cyril Ramaphosa and those loyal to former president Jacob Zuma – grows wider. And, in the case of the Zuma-ites, every time they speak out in public means they are growing bolder and stronger.

Given that wrecking ball era that was Zuma’s time in office, we don’t think that is a prospect to be savoured. The latest ruckus involves the slapping down of former North West premier Supra Mahumapelo – an ardent anti-Ramaphosa man – for his comments that he sees no reason to fire Public Protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane.

Of course not, she’s defending your side most of the time … In reminding Mahumapelo that his opinion does not reflect official policy, though, it seems that the Ramaphosa ANC is determined to get rid of Mkhwebane. That’s a good sign.

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