From ‘dirty votes’ to ancestral prayers: Nomvula Mokonyane under fire as ANC turns to spiritual intervention

Nomvula Mokonyane, the ANC's First Deputy Secretary-General, has found herself under intense scrutiny as the party turns to spiritual intervention in its quest to secure victory in the upcoming local government elections on November 4th. At the grave of Dr Pixley ka Isaka Seme, a founding father of the ANC, Mokonyane implored party members to embody the spirit of Seme and asked the "gods of the ANC" to forgive the party for any wrongdoings.

She also sought the support of the ANC's ancestors for President Cyril Ramaphosa, in hopes of garnering respect and stature for the leadership.

Social media reactions were largely hostile, with many accusing the party of hypocrisy and questioning the morality of invoking ancestral prayers. Political analyst Lesiba Teffo criticized Mokonyane's approach, drawing parallels to her infamous 2013 outburst in Bekkersdal, where she dismissed voters as "dirty". Teffo argued that Mokonyane lacks the moral authority to invoke the ANC's ancestral heritage, comparing her to political leaders like Mandela and Sisulu who would never have spoken to the people in such a dismissive manner.

Other analysts, such as Prof. Ntsikelelo Breakfast, pointed out that the root of the ANC's problems lies in its failure to deliver basic services, like electricity and water. They argued that younger voters judge the party strictly on its service delivery track record, which the ANC has consistently failed to improve. While Mokonyane's emotional plea may resonate with older generations, political analysts believe that invoking ancestral symbolism will not sway an increasingly disillusioned electorate.

Voters are demanding accountability and expect the ANC to address its poor track record, rather than relying on spiritual comfort.