ANC to pay back the money for Zimbabwe trip

The governing party visited neighbouring Zimbabwe to help find solutions on its ongoing political and economic crisis. 

The party, Defence Minister Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula and President Cyril Ramaphosa all came under fire after it emerged that the ANC-led delegation had used state resources for the trip. 

The Democratic Alliance (DA) and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) accused the ANC of blurring the lines between party and state. 

But ANC secretary-general Ace Magashule said on Tuesday that the party will pay back the money. 

“Finally, is that in our quest to achieve this mission, we travelled in an unusual manner and profusely humble ourselves where we went wrong during the lockdown and will reimburse the government for the costs incurred on behalf of our delegation,” Magashule said in a statement.  

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The delegation returned days later.

“Our delegation is under quarantine in line with our lockdown regulations,” he said, responding to reports that most of the delegation ignored the quarantine regulations upon their return.

Maguashule added the trip was a success. 

“As the ANC we would like to appreciate the success of our delegation mission of national interest to Zimbabwe with both hands because a successful and prosperous Zimbabwe as our neighbor is good for South Africa, the SADC region and our beloved continent Africa. 

“We hope and trust that the positive results of our consultation will go a long way in ensuring regional stability and growth in the two countries.”