ANC denies reports of Mbalula’s ‘secret’ budget negotiations

The African National Congress (ANC) has strongly rejected claims that its secretary-general, Fikile Mbalula, conducted secret budget negotiations outside official party channels.

In a statement, the majority party dismissed a weekend report on the matter as “wedge-driving propaganda” designed to create division within the organisation.

‘Secret budget talks’ allegations strongly refuted

According to the Sunday Times, Mbalula’s top seven colleagues were not upset about the establishment of a parallel negotiating team, but they were allegedly disappointed that he kept it secret from them.

The ANC, however, denied the existence of any such team or meeting.

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Mbalula’s official role clarified

The ANC clarified that Mbalula’s involvement in budget negotiations falls squarely within his official responsibilities as secretary-general.

According to the party, Mbalula is authorised to convene internal meetings and lead matters related to the government of national unity (GNU), coalition engagements, and the current budget impasse.

The statement emphasised that these activities are consistently reported to ANC officials.

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ANC unity emphasised

The party said it would not be derailed by the claims.

“We will not be deterred because the ANC is united, focused, and continues to lead the renewal programme of our members, our movement, and our society,” the statement read.

“Those who peddle falsehoods, manufacture confusion, or hope to undermine the revolutionary discipline of the ANC will be exposed and defeated  — not by slander, but by truth, by unity, and by the strength of our people’s mandate.”

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