ANC Women’s League Faces Leadership Crisis

The ANC Women’s League (ANCWL) is poised to make a significant leadership change as it prepares to remove former Social Development Minister Sisisi Tolashe from her position as president during a special national executive committee (NEC) meeting scheduled for Saturday. This decision comes in the wake of adverse findings from the ANC Integrity Commission, which has raised serious concerns about Tolashe’s leadership and conduct.

Integrity Commission’s Findings

Senior insiders within the ANCWL have revealed that the structure has largely endorsed the Integrity Commission’s recommendations, which have effectively undermined Tolashe’s authority. Only a few weeks ago, the Women’s League had shown support for Tolashe, with just 10% of members calling for her resignation amidst allegations of mismanagement and abuse of her family’s hired help. However, the tides have shifted dramatically following the commission’s findings, which were presented to the ANC NEC last week.

Disciplinary Procedures Ahead

A senior ANCWL insider, who spoke on condition of anonymity, confirmed that Tolashe’s fate has been sealed. “We have a meeting this coming weekend, and that is where her axing will be endorsed at the NEC,” the source stated. “What’s happening now is that once she goes to the disciplinary committee (DC), it will then go to the NEC.” This means that the only step remaining for Tolashe is to face the disciplinary committee before the NEC formalizes the decision to remove her.

Allegations of Abuse and Misconduct

The Integrity Commission’s report found Tolashe guilty of four counts, including allegations of abusing women. This is particularly troubling given her role as the leader of a women’s organization that is expected to protect women from such abuses. “As a woman who leads a women’s organisation that is supposed to be protecting women from abuse, she’s the one now accused of abusing women; that’s totally unacceptable,” the insider added.

Wider Implications for the ANC

The fallout from Tolashe’s leadership has sparked concerns that extend beyond the Women’s League. “There’s no way that she’s going to survive this. Trust me, she’s gone,” the source remarked, emphasizing that discontent with Tolashe’s leadership has permeated throughout the ANC. Reports indicate that her management style has resulted in significant internal strife, leading to divisions and dissatisfaction among staff within the social development department.

Future Leadership of ANCWL

Once Tolashe is formally removed from her position, the ANCWL will need to decide on her successor. The source indicated that the NEC will convene to endorse the decision and discuss who will take over the leadership role. The ongoing turmoil within the Women’s League highlights broader issues within the ANC, raising questions about accountability and leadership standards.

Conclusion

The upcoming NEC meeting will not only determine Tolashe’s fate but may also serve as a turning point for the ANC Women’s League. As the organization grapples with internal challenges, the outcomes could have lasting implications for its credibility and effectiveness in advocating for women’s rights within South Africa.