ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula acknowledged “our organisation is infiltrated by criminal elements and it extends to cartels.” This was during a media briefing in Johannesburg. He was responding to questions linking businessman Brown Mogotsi to alleged funding of ANC activities. Additionally, questions arose about the leaking of classified SAPS documents. Mbalula said Mogotsi’s party membership had expired and called him a “bad ANC member.”
The Madlanga Inquiry Context
Testimony at the Madlanga Judicial Commission of Inquiry alleges Mogotsi used funds from Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala. These funds were to cover ANC expenses at January 8 celebrations in the Western Cape. It is reported he held a letter purportedly from Police Minister Senzo Mchunu disbanding the Political Killings Task Team on 31 December 2024. The inquiry is probing criminality, political interference and corruption within the justice system. These details frame the stakes of the ANC criminal cartel infiltration claim.
Analysts: Trust Gap and Election Risk
University of Pretoria political scientist Roland Henwood said Mbalula’s remarks are “not news.” He argues the party’s problems stem from leaders prioritising self-interest. Moreover, he challenged the ANC to show results, citing turmoil in Gauteng local government. Independent analyst Zakes Moabelo called the admission accurate but “too late.” He warned it is unlikely to restore public trust. Their critiques underscore how the ANC criminal cartel infiltration admission could weigh on voter confidence.
Why it Matters for 2026
Analysts say the public concession may hurt the ANC in the 2026 municipal elections. This will happen if it is not matched by visible action. Past inaction on commission findings, highlighted by Professor Sipho Seepe, fuels scepticism about accountability. Former Chief Justice Raymond Zondo’s frustration adds to this scepticism. Without credible reforms, the ANC criminal cartel infiltration narrative may dominate the campaign. It could shape coalition talks and ward-level battles where margins are thin.
The Road Ahead
Mbalula distanced the party from Mogotsi. However, the commission’s testimony and analysts’ warnings raise a clear test: can the ANC deliver swift, transparent consequences and governance fixes before voters decide in 2026? That answer will determine whether the admission becomes a reset—or a liability at the polls.
