In a move that has sent shockwaves through South Africa’s political landscape, Zizi Kodwa, a former sports, arts, and culture minister, has resigned as an African National Congress (ANC) member of parliament (MP). The decision comes after intense scrutiny over his deployment to the National Assembly despite facing corruption charges.
Kodwa, who was accused of receiving bribes totaling R1.6 million from Jehan Mackay, a former EOH executive, in exchange for influencing government procurement processes, had faced mounting pressure to step down. His resignation was confirmed by the ANC on July 25, 2024, and is effective immediately.
In addition to his resignation as an MP, Kodwa has also stepped aside as a member of the ANC’s National Working Committee (NWC) and National Executive Committee (NEC). The move is seen as a significant blow to the embattled politician, who had previously resigned as sports, arts, and culture minister after being charged with corruption.
However, many are calling for others to follow suit, starting from the top. President Ramaphosa, implicated in the Phalaphala scandal, is under increasing pressure to step down. The recent breakaway of the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) from the ANC has left the party exposed, with many of its remaining leaders facing allegations of fraud and corruption.
Critics argue that Kodwa’s resignation is just the tip of the iceberg and that a thorough cleansing of the ANC’s leadership is necessary to restore public trust. “Zizi Kodwa’s resignation is a start, but there are many others who need to follow,” said an opposition party leader. “The ANC needs to take concrete steps to address corruption and hold its members accountable, starting from the President.”
Photo: Brenton Geach | Gallo Images
