South Africa: tense atmosphere for the first day of the ANC Congress
Audio 01:28
A delegate holds a sign reading 'Phala Phala', referring to the case rocking South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, during the 55th National Conference of the African National Congress (ANC) at the National Recreation Center (NASREC) in Johannesburg December 16, 2022. AFP - GUILLEM SARTORIO
Text by: RFI Follow
2 mins
In South Africa, the first day of the ANC elective conference was eventful.
Cyril Ramaphosa, candidate for his re-election at the head of the political formation, remains favorite despite the incredible affair of "Phala-Phala".
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With our correspondent in Johannesburg
,
Claire Bargelès
In South Africa, December 16 is normally the "day of reconciliation", to celebrate the unity of the country.
But this reconciliation is struggling to happen within the ANC.
Gathered for its traditional congress organized every five years, the political formation was torn between the candidacy of
Cyril Ramaphosa
and
that of the former Minister of Health, Zweli Mkhize.
He had been removed from his post following an embezzlement case.
During this first day, a group of delegates opposed to Cyril Ramaphosa tried to disrupt his speech.
“
We are here to support Dr Zweli Mkhize.
You know, with all
this Phala-Phala history
, we think the current president needs to take a step back to clear up all this shenanigans
,” said Khulekani Msomi, who comes from the KwaZulu-Natal region.
The protesters chained songs and reels with their hands to demand change.
Former President Jacob Zuma, present at the conference, also announced via his foundation that he would initiate private proceedings against Cyril Ramaphosa, accusing him of having helped to disclose confidential documents concerning his health to the media.
An entirely unfounded attack, according to the Presidency.
“
A decisive turning point for the ANC”
But at the level of the other provincial branches, the atmosphere was much calmer.
For Meriam Molala, Limpopo delegate, Cyril Ramaphosa is the only one who can straighten out the party: “
He is the best candidate.
We need him and his skills.
When we hear him presenting the party's report, he explains very well what the problems are, and what his plans are
”.
The president will finally have been able to speak, to take stock of the ANC.
“
This 55th conference represents a turning point for the African National Congress (ANC).
The decisions we make here will determine the future of our movement, and to a large extent the path our country takes in the coming years
,” he said.
And despite the many delays taken by the conference, the vote to renew the party leadership should take place this weekend.
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South Africa
Cyril Ramaphosa