Financial news

South Africa ruling party expels former secretary general over misconduct and corruption charges – JURIST

South Africa’s ruling political party, the African National Congress (ANC), expelled its former Secretary General Ace Magashule on Monday due to allegations of monetary misconduct, abuse of power and violations of fundamental values held by the group. ANC previously suspended Magashule in May under their “step-aside” policy, which requires individuals in ANC leadership positions to step down from their roles when faced with criminal charges.ANC stated that Magashule was found guilty of violating several provisions of the ANC Constitution. The National Disciplinary Committee (NDC) found that Magashule violated two rules regarding misconduct, one regarding the authority of the ANC’s National Executive Committee (NEC), and one regarding duties of duties of  NEC members.The decision was made after further internal investigations which found evidence exposing the misappropriation of money from a government contract worth more than $13 million when Magashule was the premier of the Free State province, before his rise to the top administrative position in the ANC. ANC gave Magashule seven days to “show cause why he should not be expelled from ANC.” But after those seven days lapsed, ANC announced the expulsion.Speaking to South African news IOL, Magashule said, “I’m fine. I saw breaking news on social media and television about my expulsion. I’m OK. I’m not perturbed.”ANC has been under increasing pressure to take action against members implicated in corruption scandals. Earlier this year, ANC leader and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa was cleared of any wrongdoing amid corruption allegations. Magashule faced misconduct allegations within ANC for suspending Ramaphosa, drawing claims of partisanship because of Magashule’s close relationship with former President Jacob Zuma. Zuma himself faces 16 corruption charges, though his trial has faced repeated setbacks and delays.