SACP makes U-turn after lawsuit

The SACP in the O R Tambo region has changed its tune on a statement alleging ANC provincial treasurer Babalo Madikizela was corrupt after he sued the party for defamation.

The region was taken to task by its provincial structure for labelling Madikizela a “looter”.

In an initial statement during its district executive committee meeting in July, SACP regional secretary Simthembile Mvunelo accused Madikizela of “communist cleansing” by targeting Ingquza Hill municipal mayor Pat Mdingi, its council chief whip Mpofana Tenyane and municipal manager Mluleki Fihlani.

Shortly after, Madikizela took the matter to court and sued the party for R500,000.

In an effort to find a political solution, SACP provincial secretary Xolile Nqatha and provincial chairperson Mzoleli Mrara summoned Mvunelo to a meeting with Madikizela and ANC provincial chairperson Oscar Mabuyane on Sunday.

In a statement on Monday, SACP provincial spokesperson Siyabonga Mdodi said the district agreed to: “Unreservedly withdraw parts of the statement which carried allegations against Madikizela and apologise for the harm this may have caused.”

Madikizela said he had instructed his lawyer to drop the suit.

The Daily Dispatch reported on Monday that Mdingi has been recalled by the ANC provincial executive committee.

It is not yet clear whether he has resigned as ANC provincial secretary Lulama Ngcukayitobi refused to comment on Mdingi’s recall on Monday. Mdingi also declined to comment.