ANC at war with itself as race to December intensifies

The African National Congress (ANC) is facing internal strife and turmoil as the race to the December elections intensifies. From heated conference halls to court battles, the party's battles are escalating and becoming increasingly contentious. This past weekend, chaos erupted as the ANC Eastern Cape province gathered to elect new provincial leadership, with chairs being thrown and violence breaking out. CNBC Africa's Karabo La Tla delved into the ongoing power struggles within the ANC with Mzoxolo Mpolase, MD of Political Analysis, South Africa. The ANC's internal conflicts are not limited to provincial conferences or court disputes, but also extend to regional tensions. In some regions, like the Northwest, factions are vying for power, resorting to legal challenges if their preferred faction does not prevail. This has led to a culture of mudslinging, violence, and chaos within the party, as members fight for dominance and influence. With just two months remaining before the National Elective Conference, the question arises of whether the ANC will be able to hold a successful event. While the party emphasizes the power of its branches, the prevalence of factionalism and violence threatens the possibility of a peaceful and unified conference. The normalization of disruptive behavior, such as chair-throwing and physical altercations, raises concerns about the future conduct of party members during important gatherings. Despite calls for unity from the national leadership, the ANC is embroiled in a battle for positions and livelihoods. The fight within the party is primarily about securing influential roles and ensuring economic advantages for its members. The recent turmoil in the Eastern Cape, which resulted in injuries and chaos, highlights the high stakes involved in these internal power struggles. As the ANC prepares to elect a new leader in December, the candidacy of Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma has sparked division and controversy within the party. While some provinces, like KwaZulu-Natal and the Free State, have expressed support for Dlamini-Zuma, the endorsement does not guarantee widespread backing at the grassroots level. The former AU Commission chairperson's reliance on the legacy and credibility of former President Jacob Zuma has polarized opinions, with some viewing her as a continuation of the current administration. In contrast, Cyril Ramaphosa's campaign focuses on building leadership pacts and engaging with various factions within the ANC. However, the lack of unity among provinces and regions complicates the prediction of outcomes, as allegiances are divided and support is fragmented. The Eastern Cape, for instance, displays internal rifts and conflicting loyalties, underscoring the challenges faced by both Ramaphosa and Dlamini-Zuma in securing broad-based support within the party. The upcoming National Elective Conference is poised to be a critical juncture for the ANC, determining the future direction of the party and its leadership. The internal divisions, power struggles, and contentious battles for supremacy highlight the deep-rooted challenges facing the ANC as it navigates a tumultuous path towards December's elections.