Former African National Congress (ANC) NEC Member and former Police Minister Nathi Nhleko has made the decision to resign from the governing party, citing dissatisfaction and disillusionment with the party’s leadership.
In a seven-page letter addressed to ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula, President Cyril Ramaphosa, and other party officials, Nhleko expressed his grievances. A focal point of his discontent stemmed from Mbalula’s remarks during the investigation into former President Jacob Zuma’s Nkandla residence. Nhleko took issue with Mbalula’s characterization of him sweating and referring to a swimming pool as a “fire pool” during the investigation.
In 2015, Nhleko produced a report asserting that various amenities, including a culvert, chicken run, cattle kraal, swimming pool, amphitheater, and visitors’ center, were all deemed necessary security upgrades to Zuma’s residence.
Last month, Nhleko publicly criticized Mbalula, labeling him as the worst Secretary-General in the ANC’s history, spanning over 112 years.
In his resignation letter, Nhleko lamented the transformation of the ANC, a party he had once cherished, into an entity that he no longer recognized. This disillusionment ultimately led to his decision to sever ties with the organization.
Nhleko’s resignation marks another significant departure from the ANC, underscoring growing discontent and internal strife within the party’s ranks. As the ANC grapples with internal challenges and leadership disputes, Nhleko’s departure serves as a poignant reminder of the complex dynamics at play within South Africa’s political landscape.
