Expelled ANC secretary-general Ace Magashule has declined the invitation from the EFF (Economic Freedom Fighters) to join their ranks, opting instead to establish his own political party aimed at toppling the ruling ANC (African National Congress) from power. Magashule made this announcement in an interview with Sunday World, revealing his plans for the future after his shocking dismissal from Africa’s oldest liberation movement last month. By firmly stating his intentions and dismissing any notion of appealing his expulsion, Magashule puts to rest lingering speculation about his next political move.
Magashule disclosed his decision to Sunday World, stating that he would not appeal his expulsion from the ANC and would proceed with establishing a yet-to-be-named political formation. Refuting the possibility of joining the EFF, he emphasized his commitment to forming a new party. Magashule revealed that the registration process for the party has already commenced, with the outcome expected to be announced next week. He emphasized that the initiative has garnered substantial support and intends to launch the party in Gauteng, where the ANC has experienced a significant decline in electoral support due to issues such as load shedding, high crime rates, dysfunctional municipalities, and poor service delivery.
Magashule further mentioned that plans for the launch of his party are at an advanced stage. In response to Luthuli House’s dismissive stance, downplaying his influence within the ANC, Magashule issued a warning, suggesting that the ANC would face significant challenges. He revealed ongoing groundwork in ANC strongholds, including the Free State, Mpumalanga, Gauteng, and the North West. This indicates a concerted effort to establish a foothold in regions where the ANC’s dominance has been weakened.
Recent reports highlighted the ANC’s expulsion of Magashule without conducting a risk analysis to assess the potential impact on the party’s electoral prospects in the next general election. Senior officials at Luthuli House believed that Magashule’s departure would not weaken the party but rather strengthen its electoral standing. In a previous statement, EFF leader Julius Malema mentioned extending an invitation to Magashule, offering him a place in their organization and a parliamentary role. However, Magashule’s rejection of the EFF’s offer and his determination to build his own political home validate earlier indications that he desired to be an independent political force.
Magashule’s troubles began in 2021 when, following his suspension as ANC administration boss, he retaliated by suspending party president Cyril Ramaphosa without the ANC’s approval. The party’s national executive committee (NEC) instructed him to apologize to Ramaphosa, but his refusal led to a protracted disciplinary process resulting in his expulsion. Magashule’s decision to forge ahead with his own political party aligns with his previous desire to establish his leadership and assert his autonomy within the political landscape.
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