The African National Congress (ANC) in KwaZulu-Natal has announced a R100,000 reward for information that leads to the arrest and prosecution of those behind a voice note falsely claiming to be from Provincial Secretary Bheki Mtolo.
Content of the Alleged Fake Voice Note
In the controversial voice note circulating on various social media platforms, an individual suggests that grandmothers who did not vote for the ANC should be killed through food poisoning.
ANC KZN Condemns Alleged Fake Voice Note
ANC spokesperson in KwaZulu-Natal, Mafika Mndebele, has emphatically rejected the fake voice note and others purporting to be from ANC leaders.
He warned that fabricating and distributing defamatory content via social media is a criminal offense under the Cybercrimes Act of 2020.
Warning to Social Media Users
Mafika Mndebele alerted WhatsApp group users and administrators about the legal implications of spreading such content.
He stated, “There will be severe consequences against criminals and individuals who are distributing this voice note.”
ANC Loses Majority in Provincial Legislature
In the 2024 elections, the ANC lost its majority, securing only 40% of the total votes.
This loss extends to the provincial legislatures as well, significantly impacting the party’s political standing.
Rise of the Jacob Zuma-Led MK Party
Adding to the ANC’s challenges, the Jacob Zuma-led MK Party has gained over 40% of the votes in the provinces, earning 37 seats in the provincial legislature.
This shift indicates a significant political change in the region.
Competitive Political Landscape
Following the ANC, the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) has secured 15 seats, while the ANC now holds 14 seats.
This change highlights the evolving political dynamics in KwaZulu-Natal.
Politics