Former ANC treasurer-general Dr Mathews Phosa has advised President Cyril Ramaphosa to prioritize fixing the government over trying to reform the African National Congress (ANC). Phosa made these remarks at the launch of the Foundation for Citizens Rights Under Law in Mbombela, Mpumalanga. He believes that Ramaphosa will not be able to fix the ANC due to its internal contradictions. Phosa suggests that focusing on government reform would allow Ramaphosa to deliver services to the people.
Phosa's comments come amid internal struggles within the ANC, which Ramaphosa has been trying to address since his election as party president in December 2017. Ramaphosa narrowly defeated Nkosazana-Dlamini-Zuma at the ANC's 54th national conference, but the party's internal divisions have persisted. ANC deputy president David Mabuza emerged as a significant winner from the conference, but his increased influence has come at a cost, with some of his former allies distancing themselves from him.
The ANC has faced further challenges, including criticism from its secretary-general, Ace Magashule, who has made statements that have been perceived as divisive. Ramaphosa has also faced speculation that he is using law enforcement agencies to target his opponents within the party. The President has strengthened institutions such as the South African Revenue Services, the National Prosecution Authority, and the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks), which has added to these speculations.
The Commission of Inquiry into Allegations of State Capture has also implicated several associates of former President Jacob Zuma in alleged corruption cases, further complicating Ramaphosa's position within the ANC. Some supporters of Nkosazana-Dlamini-Zuma have called for Ramaphosa's removal, with some speculating that they may try to oust him at the ANC's mid-term national general council (NGC) in June.
However, Phosa does not believe that Ramaphosa will be ousted at the NGC. Instead, he has expressed support for the President's efforts to reform the government. Phosa has also committed to supporting the Foundation for Citizens Rights Under Law, which aims to provide free legal aid to all citizens. The foundation was launched by Mpumalanga acting judge of the High Court Sinky Nkosi, who emphasized the need for citizens to access justice and protect their constitutional rights.
The Foundation for Citizens Rights Under Law has garnered support from various professional legal bodies, including the Black Lawyers Association and the National Association of Democratic Lawyers. These organizations have pledged to provide free legal representation to citizens who require it. The foundation's launch was attended by professionals from the legal and education sectors, who have expressed concern about the lack of access to justice for marginalized communities.
Phosa has donated R50,000 to the foundation and encouraged others to support it. The foundation's goals align with Phosa's views on the need for citizens to access justice and for the government to prioritize service delivery. The launch of the foundation and Phosa's comments have highlighted the ongoing challenges facing the ANC and the need for reform within the party and government.
Key points
- Phosa advises Ramaphosa to prioritize fixing the government over trying to reform the ANC.
- The ANC has faced internal struggles and criticism amid allegations of corruption and state capture.
- The Foundation for Citizens Rights Under Law aims to provide free legal aid to all citizens and has garnered support from professional legal bodies.
