Cape Town – African National Congress (ANC) Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula has publicly challenged accusations that the party received funding from Iran, demanding proof after claims surfaced linking such support to South Africa’s case before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) regarding the conflict in Gaza. The demand came during a rally in the Western Cape on Saturday, where Mbalula as well addressed concerns over disinformation and internal party discipline, signaling a firm stance against what he termed “lies” leveled against the ANC.
Mbalula’s remarks arrive amid heightened global scrutiny surrounding the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and its reverberations across the African continent. The debate over South Africa’s foreign policy, particularly its vocal criticism of Israel and its legal challenge at the ICJ, has fueled speculation about external influences. The ANC’s position on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict has long been a subject of debate, and these latest allegations add another layer of complexity to the discussion. The core of the dispute centers on whether financial support from Iran influenced South Africa’s decision to bring its case before the ICJ, a claim Mbalula vehemently denies.
Allegations of Iranian Funding and the ICJ Case
Speaking to supporters at the ANC’s “People’s March” – organized to defend South Africa’s sovereignty – Mbalula stated unequivocally, “They say the ANC has got money from Iran and that Iran paid for South Africa’s case against Israel at the International Court of Justice. We are going to take those druggies to court. No one can abuse the name of the ANC.” He reiterated his call for evidence, stating, “They must prove the ANC got money from Iran.” This strong response underscores the ANC’s sensitivity to accusations of foreign interference, particularly those that could undermine its credibility on the international stage.
The allegations of Iranian funding are not novel. The Citizen reported in January on long-standing concerns regarding potential financial ties between the ANC and Iran. However, Mbalula’s direct challenge and threat of legal action represent a significant escalation in the party’s response. The timing of these statements is also notable, coinciding with increased tensions in the Middle East following Israel’s recent strikes on Tehran, as reported by The Citizen.
Internal Party Concerns and Leadership Accountability
Beyond the external accusations, Mbalula also used the rally as an opportunity to address internal party matters. He publicly criticized the absence of several members of the ANC’s National Executive Committee (NEC) from the march, suggesting a lack of commitment to the party’s principles. “I have seen highly few members of the NEC here. There are people who do not understand the revolution. They are in comfort, it is nice. We wanted to spot them here,” he stated, demanding a full accounting of their whereabouts. This public rebuke highlights potential fissures within the ANC leadership and Mbalula’s attempt to enforce greater accountability among its members.
Mbalula’s demand for a “full register” and explanation from absent NEC members underscores his commitment to a more disciplined and unified ANC. He emphasized that being an MP is intrinsically linked to representing the ANC and therefore requires full participation in party activities. This internal focus suggests a broader effort to strengthen the ANC’s internal cohesion and address perceived weaknesses in leadership commitment.
Addressing Disinformation and Sovereignty
Mbalula also took aim at former U.S. President Donald Trump, accusing him of spreading “lies” about South Africa, specifically regarding claims of a “white genocide” against farmers. He dismissed these claims as unfounded and asserted South Africa’s sovereignty. “So we cannot be told by an classic, white man who looks delusional what to do in our own country. We are a sovereign and constitutional state, we require to be respected,” he declared. He also addressed the controversial “Kill the Boer, kill the farmer” chant, stating that while the ANC no longer promotes it, the party cannot control the actions of other political groups, noting the Constitutional Court previously ruled it did not incite harm.
The Secretary-General’s comments on Trump echo previous criticisms of the former president’s rhetoric regarding South Africa. These statements are part of a broader effort to counter what the ANC views as a deliberate attempt to tarnish the country’s image on the international stage. Mbalula also emphasized the need for South Africa to diversify its trade interests, while still maintaining positive relationships with American companies.
Allegations of Russian Interference
Mbalula’s strong defense of the ANC’s integrity comes shortly after the party denied allegations of collaboration or funding from Russia or Iran. These denials followed an investigation by Forbidden Stories, which claimed secret meetings took place between a Russian agent and Mbalula regarding smear campaigns against the Democratic Alliance (DA) ahead of last year’s general elections. ANC spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu firmly rejected these allegations, stating, “There has been no collaboration, coordination or engagement with any foreign intelligence service, including those of the Russian Federation or the Islamic Republic of Iran.”
The accusations of Russian interference represent a separate but related challenge to the ANC’s credibility. The party’s swift denial and condemnation of the allegations suggest a heightened awareness of the potential damage that such claims could inflict on its reputation. The ongoing investigations and public debate surrounding these allegations are likely to continue to shape the political landscape in South Africa.
The ANC has stated it will pursue legal action against those spreading what it deems to be false information. The next step will likely involve identifying individuals and entities making the claims of Iranian funding and initiating legal proceedings. The party has also indicated it will continue to defend its position on the international stage and advocate for a peaceful resolution to the conflict in the Middle East. The situation remains fluid, and further developments are expected as the ANC navigates these complex challenges.
This is a developing story. Readers are encouraged to share their thoughts and engage in constructive dialogue in the comments section below.
