Zungu warns ANC ‘gatekeeping’ threatens party’s future

Business tycoon Sandile Zungu, who pulled out of ANC KwaZulu-Natal leadership race four years ago, says gatekeeping is threatening the party’s future. “The ANC talks renewal, but it is not renewing in essence,” Zungu said, speaking during a podcast interview with Sowetan editor Sibongakonke Shoba for IN THE KNOW with Sowetan. Zungusaid while he will never turn down political office, he will not campaign for a position, preferring instead to focus on making an impact through his business ventures.

“I will never say no in all honesty. If the country calls for my services, if the country believes I have a role to play, I will never frown upon it. What I won’t do is to raise my hands and go on a campaign.

I don’t want to do that,” he said. His comments come in the backdrop of rumours that mining magnate and billionaire Patrice Motsepe is being lobbied to contest for ANC president in 2027. Motsepe has repeatedly said he is not interested in entering party politics, but this has not stopped campaigners from raising his name for contest.

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“Where I am, I am absolutely happy. I am making a difference in my immediate environment and I think I am desired in the space that I am in business. I am adding a lot of value,” Zungu said.

In 2022, Zungu entered the race to lead KwaZulu-Natal but withdrew his nomination after an extensive campaign. He said when he joined the race, he had clear intentions. READ|Sandile Zungu sings out for ‘sister’ Zandile Gumede ahead of ANC conference This followed an approach by young people in the province and initial testing of the waters for about a month, crisscrossing the province and speaking with key decision-makers and influential figures. However, after a few meetings, he said: “No, that’s not for me,” and pulled out of the race.

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