‘I Don’t Know What to Apologise For’ – Gwede Mantashe Responds to ANCWL Backlash

African National Congress (ANC) national chairperson Gwede Mantashe has responded to calls for a public apology from the ANC Women’s League (ANCWL), saying he does not understand what he is expected to apologise for because the league has not engaged him directly on the matter.

The disagreement follows a statement issued by the ANCWL condemning remarks allegedly made by Mantashe. The organisation described the comments as disturbing and derogatory and demanded an immediate and unconditional retraction.

However, Mantashe has pushed back against the criticism, arguing that the women’s league has not approached him to discuss the controversy or explain its concerns directly.

Speaking to the media, the ANC chairperson expressed confusion over the demand for an apology, maintaining that he had not received direct communication from the league regarding the matter.

According to Mantashe, he cannot be expected to respond to demands for an apology without first understanding precisely what the organisation believes he said wrong.

His response has added another dimension to the disagreement, which has now become a public issue within the governing party.

The ANC Women’s League, which represents women within the ANC and advocates for their interests, has taken a firm position against the remarks. Its demand for an apology indicates that the organisation considers the comments serious enough to warrant a formal response from the party’s national chairperson.

Mantashe’s position, however, suggests that he believes direct engagement should take place before the matter proceeds further.

The disagreement has drawn attention to relations between senior ANC leaders and other structures within the party. Differences over public statements can become sensitive issues, particularly when they involve questions of respect, accountability and the treatment of women.

Although the ANCWL has called for an apology, Mantashe’s response indicates that the dispute has not yet been resolved.

It remains unclear whether the two sides will hold a meeting to discuss the matter and whether Mantashe will eventually issue a retraction or apology.

For now, the disagreement places the spotlight on the relationship between the ANC chairperson and the women’s league as both sides maintain their respective positions.

Further developments will depend on whether direct engagement takes place and if the organisation receives the response it has demanded.

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