By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The African National Congress (ANC) Secretary General Fikile Mbalula says he made reference to former President Thabo Mbeki in the context of the freedom of speech veterans and former leaders enjoy in the party.
Addressing ANC faithfuls at Harry Gwala Stadium in Pietermaritzburg, Mbalula said the old men should not be intimidated for disagreeing with the current leadership but their outbursts should be understood as being informed by old age.
He said old people tend to speak carelessly, not mindful of the damage that may be caused by their speeches. You see when one becomes old, one becomes like a child and can say whatever you wish to say,” said Mbalula.
“This was meant to call into line those who are quick to criticise former leaders and veterans of the movement when they make what others regard as unpopular utterances.
“It is rather unfortunate that there are people who chose to ignore the context of my remarks in reference to former president Thabo Mbeki at the rally, and chose to suggest that my remarks were an attack on President Mbeki. There could be nothing further from the truth, “Mbalula said.
Mbalula said the context of his remarks relate to a “phenomenon” which is neither new in the ANC nor limited to Mbeki.
FIKILE MBALULA
People of KZN!! we love Msholozi, uNxamalala. Jacob Zuma.
We don’t have any problems with him. We not fighting him.
We love Thabo Mbeki too.
It’s natural that when people get old they behave like babies.
They speak their minds. Allow them to babble
He… pic.twitter.com/1c6CNGEEt9
— Constitution First ?? (@Constitution_94) October 9, 2023
“All our former leaders, from former president Mandela to former deputy president Motlanthe, have made similar remarks.
When elders make remarks that are perceived as contradicting the party line – or are seen as rebuking the leadership of the day – others are quick to draw parallels and suggest that there is a falling out between the current and former leaders,” Mbalula said.
Mbalula said he has tremendous respect for Mbeki and enjoy an “open communication line with him as an elder and a former leader of our movement.”
“From time to time, I take counsel from him and he has been consistent in engaging with the leadership at NEC level on matters that concern the ANC,” Mbalula said.
Mbalula hinted that the ANC would hold its manifesto launch in Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban, likely to coincide with the party’s January 8 statement celebrations.