ANC Makes a Decision on Gwede Mantashe After Controversial TV Interview, Ramaphosa Breaks Silence

The African National Congress (ANC) is addressing the controversy surrounding its national chairperson, Gwede Mantashe, following remarks he made during a television interview that sparked widespread criticism. The party’s leadership has confirmed that the matter is being discussed internally, raising questions about what action could follow.

President Cyril Ramaphosa confirmed that Mantashe’s conduct was among the issues under discussion within the organisation. His comments came after growing pressure from ANC members and the public over the remarks, which have placed one of the party’s most senior leaders under scrutiny.

The controversy stems from Mantashe’s response to a journalist who questioned him about allegations that a municipal councillor had demanded sexual favours from women seeking employment. During the exchange, Mantashe used explicit language while arguing that alleged misconduct by individual councillors should not automatically be attributed to the ANC as a whole.

The remarks triggered criticism, particularly from the ANC Women’s League, which described his comments as inappropriate and demanded a public apology.

The league also called for disciplinary action, arguing that senior leaders have a responsibility to uphold the party’s stated commitment to equality, dignity and respect for women.

Mantashe subsequently responded to the criticism during another interview, saying that the Women’s League had not approached him directly to explain what he should apologise for. He maintained that he did not believe his remarks warranted an apology.

Ramaphosa, meanwhile, indicated that the issue was being handled within the ANC’s internal structures. His response suggests that the controversy has reached the party’s leadership, although it does not establish that a final disciplinary decision has been made.

The dispute has also drawn attention to the ANC’s handling of allegations involving the abuse of political influence and the treatment of women seeking employment. Critics argue that such allegations require a serious response, particularly when they involve individuals who may hold power over access to jobs and other opportunities.

The ANC now faces questions about how it will resolve the disagreement between Mantashe and the Women’s League while maintaining its stated organisational principles.

Although the party has acknowledged that the matter is under discussion, a final outcome regarding possible disciplinary action has not been confirmed in the available reports.

The developments have placed renewed focus on Mantashe’s conduct and the response of the ANC leadership, with attention turning to whether the internal discussions will result in a formal reprimand, disciplinary proceedings or another resolution.

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