Ramaphosa Apologizes for Msimang’s Departure from the Party
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed his regret over the departure of former African National Congress (ANC) treasurer-general Zweli Mkhize from the party.
In a statement released on Monday, Ramaphosa said he was sorry to see Mkhize leave the ANC, but respected his decision.
“I am deeply saddened by the departure of Dr. Zweli Mkhize from the ANC. He has been a loyal and dedicated servant of the ANC and the people of South Africa for many years,” Ramaphosa said.
“I understand and respect his decision to step down from his position and wish him well in his future endeavours.”
Mkhize, who served as ANC treasurer-general from 2012 to 2017, announced his resignation from the party last week, citing personal reasons.
The former treasurer-general was a key figure in the ANC’s election campaign in 2016 and was seen as a potential successor to President Jacob Zuma.
Ramaphosa said Mkhize’s contribution to the ANC and the country would be remembered.
“Dr. Mkhize has served the ANC and the people of South Africa with distinction and dedication. His contribution to the ANC and the nation will be remembered and appreciated for many years to come,” he said.
The president also thanked Mkhize for his service to the party and the country.
“I thank Dr. Mkhize for his commitment to the ANC and the people of South Africa and wish him all the best in his future endeavours,” Ramaphosa said.
The ANC has yet to name a replacement for Mkhize, but the party is expected to announce a new treasurer-general soon.
In the meantime, Ramaphosa has urged the party to continue to work together to ensure the success of the ANC’s election campaign in 2019.
“I urge all members of the ANC to continue to work together to ensure that we achieve the goals of the ANC’s election campaign and that we continue to build a better South Africa for all,” he said.
Ramaphosa’s statement comes as the ANC prepares for its national elective conference in December, where the party will choose its new leader.
The ANC has been in power since the end of apartheid in 1994 and is expected to retain its majority in the 2019 general election.
