For supporters of Kgalema Motlanthe, who call themselves the Forces of Change, today was one of disappointment as their dream for change was shattered.While the Zuma camp celebrated their win, the Forces of Change reflected on their loss.Abram Mamtlhakga, a voting delegate from Limpopo, said although they wanted a different outcome, they stand behind the ANC. “As the supporters of Motlanthe and Forces of Change we are disappointed, but we are not sad. The leadership that we are supporting will still serve the ANC 100%. The ANC has created disciplined members and we will rally behind the ANC.”According to Shai Tshifona, Zuma’s leadership has betrayed the ideals of the Freedom Charter. “Under him, the leaders never lived up to expectation. They didn’t seriously carry out the mandate of the Freedom Charter.” He expressed his dismay at the lack of service delivery. “That’s why there was riots in municipalities, people were striking for service delivery. Leaders are only focused on defending each other.”Tshifona further says he wants a new leader since there is evidence of corruption within government and the ANC. “If there wasn’t corruption we wouldn’t see the Scorpions being replaced by the Hawks. Time and again if you change Ministers it also means there is corruption.”The issue of Nkandla raised ire. “If Zuma is saying he built Nkandla out of family money then why is Public Works involved. If they have money to build that village they should have the money for security,” he argued.For an ANC non-voting member, it’s a matter of trust. He thinks ANC delegates trust Zuma more than Motlanthe. He doesn’t believe Motlanthe’s political future is over though.”I think JZ has his last sermon to do, but Motlanthe will be back.”
– By Bibi-Aisha Wadvalla
