ANC says not being selective in step-aside rule application when it comes to Mchunu
President Cyril Ramaphosa put Mchunu on a special leave of absence a week ago following allegations that he’s been colluding with criminal networks and interfering in the work of the police.
ANC president Cyril Ramaphosa, national chairperson Gwede Mantashe (left) and Secretary General Fikile Mbalula (far left) at the party’s national working committee in Cape Town. Picture: Lindsay Dentlinger/EWN.
CAPE TOWN - The African National Congress (ANC) said it’s not being selective in its application of its step-aside rule when it comes to embattled Minister of Police Senzo Mchunu.
President Cyril Ramaphosa put Mchunu on a special leave of absence a week ago following allegations that he’s been colluding with criminal networks and interfering in the work of the police.
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On Sunday, Secretary General Fikile Mbalula said Mchunu would only be asked to step aside from party activity if he is charged and arrested.
The ANC’s national working committee (NWC) is meeting in Cape Town this weekend to discuss the state of the party in the province.
Mchunu is present at the meeting.
Speaking on the sidelines, Mbalula said the party is not applying double standards when it comes to Mchunu.
“There’s no such thing as selective application of the step-aside rule. Step aside deals with everyone. Once you appear in court, the step-aside rule will apply.”
Mbalula said Ramaphosa has acted decisively against Mchunu and ordered a commission of inquiry to get to the bottom of the allegations he’s facing.
“The president has put Senzo Mchunu aside, with immediate effect. Argue the question of how that has happened, but it’s aside.”
Mbalula said as an elected member of the party’s national executive, Mchunu will continue to participate in its meetings.