Mayibuye Melisiziwe, the great-grandchild of former ANC president Nelson Mandela, is not afraid to speak out against the party he was raised in. In an interview with TimesLIVE, he criticized the ANC, stating that “there is nothing African about the ANC”. He believes that the party has lost touch with its roots, particularly due to its decision to lead the government of national unity (GNU).
Mandela expressed disappointment in the ANC’s lack of concern for the people, highlighting the growing poverty in the country despite being in a democracy for the past 30 years. He pointed out the disconnect between the government’s lavish spending and the dire living conditions faced by many South Africans in places like Khayelitsha and Nyanga.
He emphasized the dismal living conditions that many South Africans endure, stating that it is not reflective of a humane society. Mandela’s outspoken criticism sheds light on the disconnect between the ANC’s leadership and the struggles faced by ordinary citizens.