It is understandable that the ANC is angered that its former leader, Jacob Zuma, cost it votes in last week’s election. But blaming the 45% of votes won by uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) in KwaZulu-Natal on tribalism is childish, reckless and unhelpful.
When asked by journalists if the ANC had underestimated MK in KwaZulu-Natal, Gwede Mantashe, the ANC national chair, attributed the MK party’s success to Zulu tribalism.
This is irrational.
KwaZulu-Natal is predominantly a Zulu-speaking province. In the past 25 years of post-apartheid democracy, millions of Zulu-speaking residents have voted for successive ANC administrations. This was also when the ANC was led by non-Zulus, including President Cyril Ramaphosa, its current leader.
One of the strengths of the ANC has been its stance on racism and tribalism. Many leaders of the party have always denounced tribalism and ethnicity. To beat the tribalism drum is against ANC policy and values. As a senior leader, Mantashe, who has not sustained this narrative, should withdraw this inflammatory statement and apologise to the voters.
If anything, his statement shows a party that is out of touch with the electorate. The ANC needs introspection to figure out why so many people stayed away from voting and, more importantly, why 60% of voters rejected the party last Wednesday.
These are far more critical questions, especially as the ANC contemplates forming a coalition government.
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.