On Sunday former eThekwini Mayor, Zandile Gumede, and her Unity slate made a clean sweep in their contest against the Renewal, Rebuild Unity (RRU) faction for leadership of the ANC’s eThekwini region.
Gumede and 21 other co-accused have been charged with fraud, corruption and money-laundering after the R320-million Durban Solid Waste tender was awarded by the eThekwini Municipality. The case will resume in the Pietermaritzburg High Court on 13 July.
It remains to be seen whether Gumede will step down from her position until her cases have been settled.
“The branches of eThekwini love her. She has been a leader of this region, serving in various positions and roles, for more than 20 years. Branches of eThekwini love her and trust her,” said Ntando Khuzwayo, who spearheaded her campaign.
All five nominees on Gumede’s slate won. Gumede obtained 210 votes, beating current eThekwini Municipality Speaker Thabani Nyawose, who secured 181 votes.
Due to the step-aside resolution, Gumede was not at the conference and followed the proceedings from her home.
The result is seen as a huge setback for Cyril Ramaphosa. It could also have serious ramifications for the leadership of the ANC in KwaZulu-Natal, which is to have its electoral conference in mid-July.
Pule Mabe, national ANC spokesman, said the new eThekwini regional leadership had to be given space to reflect on the way forward on Gumede’s step-aside issue.
“I think it is only fair that this new leadership is given its space to conduct its business, including reflecting on the step-aside issue. The National Working Committee (NWC) will be meeting on Monday to reflect on this and other matters to communicate one singular message on the step-aside issue so that our members will not be misled,” Mabe said.