ANC Admits to Lying about Jacob Zuma’s “Fire Pool” Scandal
In a shocking revelation, the African National Congress (ANC) has admitted to lying in parliament to defend former president Jacob Zuma’s controversial R3.9 million “fire pool” at his Nkandla residence in KwaZulu-Natal back in 2014. The admission was made by the party’s secretary general, Fikile Mbalula, during a recent event in Mpumalanga.
The Nkandla scandal erupted when former Public Protector Thuli Madonsela, in her “Secure in Comfort” report, found that Zuma had improperly benefited from taxpayer-funded security upgrades at his home. Among these upgrades was the construction of a swimming pool, which government officials defended as a necessary precaution in case of a fire.
However, Mbalula’s admission reveals that the ANC knowingly spread falsehoods about the purpose of the pool. This revelation has brought further criticism to a scandal that already tarnished the party’s reputation and led to significant fallout for those involved.
The ANC had formed an ad hoc committee to investigate the Nkandla scandal, and now Mbalula’s admission raises questions about the integrity of the party’s response at the time. He acknowledged that people had lost their careers due to the lies surrounding the scandal, and this admission underscores the gravity of the situation.
The Constitutional Court was eventually involved in the Nkandla case, and former Chief Justice Mogoeng Mogoeng delivered a damning judgment stating that Zuma was not fit for office. Despite this, the ANC stood by Zuma’s side. However, Mbalula highlighted the irony of Zuma’s recent statements, where he claims to be unable to tolerate President Cyril Ramaphosa, who has not faced such a judgment.
This admission from Mbalula comes at a time when the ANC is already dealing with internal divisions and public criticism. Zuma’s recent announcement that he would not support the party in the upcoming elections and his formation of the Umkhonto weSizwe (MK) party has further aggravated the situation.
Civil rights groups and activists have expressed deep concern over Mbalula’s admission, as it not only reveals a willingness to defend corruption but also undermines the credibility of parliament and the Constitution itself. This admission raises questions about how many other instances there may have been where the ANC lied to protect their presidents, both past and present.
As ordinary South Africans, it is crucial that we register to vote in the upcoming national and provincial government elections. We have been urged for years to vote with our consciences, but it is now time to vote with our lived experiences. Our country needs leaders who prioritize ethical governance and address the real concerns of everyday citizens – issues such as lack of basic services, unemployment, and corruption.
The ANC’s admission of lying in parliament is a stark reminder that we need to hold our leaders accountable and choose wisely when casting our votes. It’s time for a new era of transparency, integrity, and leadership that truly serves the best interests of the country and its people.