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Zizi Kodwa’s Resignation from Parliament Adds to ANC’s Turmoil

Former sports, arts, and culture Minister Zizi Kodwa in an unexpected turn of events has resigned from Parliament just a month after being sworn in, casting a spotlight on the ongoing battle within the ANC to maintain its integrity amid persistent corruption allegations. This development comes as Kodwa faces severe corruption charges whereby he is accused of receiving R1.6 million in bribes.

The African National Congress’s acting spokesperson, Zuko Godlimpi, confirmed the resignation on Thursday. “The secretary-general of the ANC, Comrade Fikile Mbalula, has received a letter from Comrade Zizi Kodwaformally communicating his resignation as a Member of Parliament. The letter is dated 24 July 2024, and the resignation is with immediate effect. The African National Congress has accepted the letter and wishes Comrade Zizi well, Godlimpi stated.

Kodwa’s resignation marks a critical moment for the ANC as it struggles with its internal policies and public image. His return to the National Assembly had been mired in controversy, with accusations of corruptionreceiving R1.6 million in bribes during his tenure as ANC national spokesperson between 2015 and 2016. The charges include allegations of receiving direct payments and luxury accommodation from former EOH executive Jehan Mackay. This case, which is part of a broader investigation into EOH Holdings’ contracts with the City of Johannesburg, has kept Kodwa in the legal spotlight.

Earlier this week, he made a brief appearance in the Johannesburg Specialised Commercial Crime Court in Palm Ridge, alongside his co-accused, former EOH executive Jehan Mackay, where the State disclosed the charge sheet and the contents of the docket to the defense. However, Kodwa’s attorney, Zola Majavu, has requested more information from the State.

Kodwa’s abrupt resignation is seen by many as a strategic move, possibly aimed at reducing the political fallout for the ANC and mitigating the impact of the corruption allegations on the party’s image. His reappointment to Parliament had already been criticised for flouting the ANC’s “step-aside” rule, designed to sideline members facing serious criminal charges. This rule had been a cornerstone of the ANC’s promise to cleanse its ranks and restore public trust.

This incident adds to a growing list of high-profile resignations and scandals that have plagued the ANC in recent years. For many observers, Kodwa’s departure is another indicator of the deep-seated issues within the party, which struggles to reconcile its governance with the ethical expectations of the public.

The ANC now faces the task of not only finding a suitable replacement for Kodwa but also addressing the broader implications of his resignation. As the party prepares for upcoming elections, it must grapple with the reality that public perception of its integrity and commitment to anti-corruption measures will be pivotal in determining its future.

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Written by: Theone Jacobs

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