Former South African President Jacob Zuma Faces Finality as A.N.C. Upholds Expulsion

The African National Congress (A.N.C.) has officially reinforced its decision to expel former President Jacob Zuma, dismissing his attempts to retain membership after he formed a rival party. This decision further solidifies the growing rift in South Africa's political landscape ahead of upcoming elections.

South Africa's African National Congress (A.N.C.) has confirmed it will not reinstate former President Jacob Zuma, rejecting his appeal against his July expulsion. The party previously severed ties with Zuma, labeling him a traitor due to his efforts in forming and campaigning for a rival political movement before the forthcoming elections in May.

Zuma's expulsion resulted from his actions as he sought to challenge the A.N.C.’s long-standing dominance in South African politics. He formed a new political entity named uMkhonto weSizwe, or the M.K. party, which displayed surprising electoral strength by securing 58 seats in Parliament, signaling significant public dissatisfaction with the ruling party.

Despite having been a dedicated member of the A.N.C. since his youth, and with a past that includes struggles against apartheid, Zuma's later years in power were plagued by scandal and allegations of corruption. After his presidency ended under intense political pressure, he was subjected to a judicial inquiry and served a brief prison sentence for defying a court order.

In a bid to challenge the A.N.C.’s current leadership, particularly President Cyril Ramaphosa, Zuma insisted his new political venture aimed to retake control of the party he helped to build. The A.N.C.'s statement indicated that it would not tolerate actions undermining its integrity from any member, regardless of their prior contributions. As the tension between the former president and the party escalates, the implications for South Africa's political future remain to be seen.