Former ANC MP Boy Mamabolo takes party to court over alleged factionalism

Former ANC Member of Parliament Boy Mamabolo has taken legal action against his party, accusing it of factional behavior that he claims led to his removal from the ANC’s provincial list. The case is being heard in the High Court in Johannesburg today.

Mamabolo’s Removal and Legal Claims

Mamabolo, who hails from the Peter Mokaba region in Limpopo, asserts that his removal from position five on the provincial list was both unfair and politically motivated. The official reason cited for his removal was his alleged failure to submit a matric certificate, a claim he disputes.

He argues that the certificate provision was not a requirement for passing the interviews conducted during the selection process.

“I was a sitting MP at that time. What is more perplexing is that the ANC had my profile to prove that I have matric. Such a harsh decision was done deliberately. It was a desperate move fuelled by factional battles that, if not well checked in time, will collapse this organisation,” said Mamabolo.

Mamabolo alleges that his removal stemmed from political differences with the ANC Provincial Executive Committee (PEC) in Limpopo, claiming the committee was influenced by internal factional rivalries.

Previous Court Action and Current Hearing

This is not Mamabolo’s first attempt to challenge his removal. He previously approached the High Court in Johannesburg on an urgent basis in April 2024, just before the May elections, seeking to interdict the provincial list. However, his application was dismissed due to a lack of urgency.

Mamabolo expressed confidence in his current case:

“I am not going to court to lose. I am winning this one – come hell or high water.”

The case, now enrolled on the court’s normal roll, is set to be heard today at 10 a.m.

Limpopo ANC Responds

The Limpopo ANC has confirmed awareness of Mamabolo’s legal action. Mathole Jimmy Machaka, the ANC’s Limpopo spokesperson, stated that the party is confident in its adherence to procedural rules during the selection process.

Machaka pointed out that Mamabolo had previously brought an urgent application against the ANC, which was struck off the roll with costs.

“Boy is demanding to be deployed as an MP, although the process of deployment has long passed,” said Machaka.

He also noted that Mamabolo owes the ANC legal costs totaling R150,000 from the earlier case.

Matric Certificate Debate

Machaka dismissed Mamabolo’s claims that his removal was based solely on the matric certificate issue.

“Boy was never removed. When requested to provide matric results, he failed to do so. Second, matric was not the only determining factor for his fate. His performance was way below others. Gender balance was also a determining factor,” said Machaka.

This rebuttal highlights a broader argument that Mamabolo’s removal was based on multiple factors, including performance, gender representation, and compliance with party requirements.

Mamabolo’s Perspective on Factionalism

Mamabolo’s accusations of factionalism have sparked debate within ANC circles. He claims the decision to remove him was driven by internal rivalries and a refusal to tolerate dissenting voices.

“It was not about my qualifications or performance but a clear effort to marginalize me because I don’t share the same political language as some members of the PEC,” Mamabolo asserted.

Implications for the ANC

The case has broader implications for the ANC, highlighting ongoing tensions and factional struggles within the party. Mamabolo’s allegations suggest that internal divisions could impact the party’s unity and effectiveness.

Observers note that disputes like this could erode public confidence in the ANC’s internal processes and governance.

Outcome Awaited

As the High Court in Johannesburg hears arguments today, the outcome will determine whether Mamabolo’s removal is upheld or overturned. The ruling could also set a precedent for how the ANC handles similar disputes in the future.

Regardless of the judgment, this case underscores the deep divisions within the ANC and raises questions about the transparency and fairness of its internal processes. Mamabolo remains resolute, vowing to fight for what he believes is justice, while the ANC maintains that it has acted within its rights.