ANC's hands are tied on rebel MPs, says analyst
A political analyst has warned that the ANC's reaction to the four MPs who voted to adopt the Phala Phala report could lead to deeper divisions within the party.
The independent panel's report was debated and voted on by MP's in the National Assembly on Tuesday.
The report found that Ramaphosa's response to the theft of foreign currency from his farm may have violated the Constitution and his oath of office.
Two hundred and fourteen MP's voted against adopting the report and 148 in favour, while two MPs abstained.
Senior national executive committee member Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma was the first of the four to defy the party's instruction and vote in favour of adopting the report and starting the impeachment process against the president.
“What we saw in Parliament is the expression of deep division that can further divide the party through expelling, suspending or pushing the MPs for going against Ramaphosa," says political analyst Ralph Mathekga.
“The party will attempt to discipline the members but the members can always state to have voted on the basis of principle and accountability.
“So, the ANC’s hands are tied on this one. I think they should just let it go and tackle what the party is currently undergoing, deep division.”
ALSO READ:
