Mbeki: ‘If reports are true, Ramaphosa is correct to offer his resignation’

Former ANC president Thabo Mbeki expressed his belief on Monday that if President Cyril Ramaphosa has indeed offered to resign, it would be the "correct" decision. Mbeki made these remarks during an appearance on Mbuyiseni Ndlozi's podcast, African Renaissance Podcast. The topic of discussion included various subjects, including the deteriorating relationship between the United States and South Africa, as well as the disappointing performance of the ANC in the recent elections.

According to sources, Ramaphosa reportedly offered to step down due to the decline in ANC support. However, ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula firmly denied these rumors, stating that the party's leadership is elected for a full term and that the current term has seen both ups and downs, particularly in relation to the last two elections. Mbalula emphasized that the president does not intend to leave his position, and there are no discussions within the ANC about the president stepping down.

Mbeki further weighed in on the possibility of renewing the ANC's top seven leadership members and taking responsibility for the decline in support. He stated that it would be the "correct" thing to do, as leaders in democratic countries typically resign in the face of a major disaster. He argued that the ANC must acknowledge their role in the catastrophic situation and consider if taking responsibility would be the appropriate course of action.

Mbeki pointed out the disastrous consequences that have unfolded under the current leadership, such as a declining economy, rising unemployment, increased poverty, and heightened crime rates. He questioned whether it is time for the top seven to take a step back and acknowledge their shortcomings, as Ramaphosa has seemingly done.