ANC Gives Update on UMkhonto weSizwe

By: Mfundo Mabaso

ANC Deputy Secretary General (DSG), Jessie Duarte, says the National Working Committee stands clear on it decision to recognize the South African Defence Force (SANDF)  as the only military force in the country.

Duarte expressed this during a media briefing at Luthuli House in Johannesburg, on the outcomes of the NWC.

The meeting focused on matters varying from the COVID-19 pandemic and vaccine roll-out, BBGM, conferences and candidate selection for Local Government Elections, MK Veterans unity process, amongst other issues.

On UMkhonto weSizwe, Duarte highlighted that following a decision that the association will be disbanded, an interim committee for a unity conference of MK veterans has been established established.

“The NWC supported the steps taken by the Deputy Secretary General to engage the leadership
of MK Military Veterans Association (MKMVA) and MK National Council (MKNC) regarding the
implementation of the decision that both MKMVA and MKNC should consider dissolving and
participating in a preparatory committee for a unity conference led retired generals and other
former senior MK commanders,” explains Duarte.

On preparations for the Local Government Elections, Duarte has revealed that ANC branches have held over 3000 BBGMs, and have started selecting candidates for local government election.

“The NWC supported the ANC submission reaffirming the decision of the NEC that local government elections should proceed within the timeframes provided for in the Constitution and the law, unless it is objectively impossible for this to happen.”

Duarte has also weighed in on  the embattled Health Minister, Zweli Mkhize, saying they welcomed the decision by Mkhize to present himself to the Integrity Commission, in line with the resolution of the 54th National Conference.

On Wednesday afternoon, Mkhize was placed on special leave by President Cyril Ramaphosa, with Tourism Minister, Mmamoloko Kubayi-Ngubane, serving as Acting Minister of Health until further notice.