Johannesburg – The African National Congress (ANC) in Limpopo has suspended former Member of Parliament Boy Mamabolo.
This follows a social media firestorm in which Mamabolo accused Defence Department spokesperson and ANC NEC member Onica Moloi of leveraging inappropriate relationships for career advancement. The party slammed Mamabolo’s “disgraceful conduct” as a breach of its values, triggering disciplinary proceedings that could reshape his political future.
Mamabolo’s suspension, announced on Thursday, came after he unleashed a tirade on social media, using derogatory language to allege Moloi slept her way up the ANC ranks. The posts, widely condemned as sexist and divisive, drew immediate backlash from the ANC Women’s League and senior party figures.
ANC’s hardline response
ANC Limpopo Provincial Secretary Vhamusanda Madadzhe confirmed the suspension, stating Mamabolo’s actions “brought the organization into disrepute.”
The Provincial Working Committee (PWC) ordered him to face a disciplinary panel, with suspension effective until proceedings conclude. Jimmy Machaka, ANC Limpopo spokesperson, warned members: “Using social media to attack comrades undermines our unity. This behavior won’t be tolerated.”
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A history of tensions
Mamabolo’s clash with the ANC isn’t new. In 2023, the party axed him from its parliamentary candidate list amid doubts over his matric certificate—a move he challenged in court. The case was dismissed due to “lack of urgency,” but the fallout left lingering resentment.
Broader implications for ANC unity
This scandal underscores mounting internal strife within the ANC as it grapples with enforcing discipline in the digital age. Analysts suggest Mamabolo’s suspension signals the party’s bid to project control ahead of critical elections, but critics argue public infighting risks alienating voters.
What’s next?
As Mamabolo prepares for his disciplinary hearing, questions swirl about accountability in South Africa’s political arena. Will the ANC’s crackdown deter future online attacks, or fuel further rebellion?
