ANC Orders Gwede Mantashe To Apologise, But His Response Leaves Women’s League Unhappy

The African National Congress (ANC) has instructed its national chairperson, Gwede Mantashe, to issue a public apology following controversial remarks he made during a campaign visit to North West. However, the party’s decision to close the matter has failed to resolve the disagreement with the ANC Women’s League, which continues to demand an unconditional apology and disciplinary action.

The controversy began when a journalist questioned Mantashe about allegations that a municipal councillor had demanded sexual favours from women seeking employment. In response, Mantashe argued that the matter should not involve the ANC and used explicit language referring to female genitalia.

His comments immediately attracted criticism, particularly from the ANC Women’s League, which described the remarks as inappropriate and unacceptable. The organisation called for a public apology and disciplinary measures, arguing that the national chairperson needed to be held accountable for his choice of words.

Mantashe subsequently indicated that he was apologising, but his response included a statement that he did not know what he should apologise for. This qualification further complicated the situation, raising questions about whether he genuinely acknowledged the concerns expressed by women within the party.

ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula confirmed that the party’s National Working Committee had instructed Mantashe to apologise. Mbalula maintained that the apology had been made and declared the controversy closed.

However, the Women’s League has refused to accept that the issue has been adequately resolved. Its continued demand for an unconditional apology highlights the differences between the party’s leadership and its women’s structure over how the incident should be handled.

The controversy has also drawn attention to the original allegations involving a municipal councillor accused of demanding sexual favours in exchange for employment opportunities. Those allegations remain separate from the criticism directed at Mantashe over his response to the journalist’s question.

The dispute presents a challenge for the ANC as it continues its campaign activities in North West. While the party leadership considers the apology sufficient, the Women’s League wants a clearer acknowledgement of the concerns raised.

It remains uncertain whether the ANC will consider further disciplinary action. For now, the disagreement centres on accountability, respect for women and whether Mantashe’s response meets the standards expected of a senior party leader.

https://x.com/thetruthpanther/status/2113311820010127449?s=46

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