Party factions let rip

One conference, two different song books.

That’s how the first day of the ANC’s fifth national policy conference played out yesterday as one faction sang the praises of President Jacob Zuma and another spoke out against him.

The most vocal group, dubbed the Premier League that is said to include North West premier Supra Mahumapelo, Free State premier Ace Magashule and Mpumalanga premier David Mabuza, danced and sang to show their approval of Zuma.

On the other side of the fence a group from the Eastern Cape shouted “leadership change!”

Their opponents from the provinces led by Mabuza, Mahumapelo and Magashule would have none of it, asking: “What has Zuma done?”

Occupying the middle ground were members of Gauteng branches, appearing calm and collected as they waited for Zuma‘s opening address.

The use of songs to either praise Zuma or call for a change in leadership came just a day after ANC secretary-general Gwede Mantashe had said that chanting or singing to relay messages and campaign for individuals would be stopped.

It’s become part of the ANC‘s culture as a way for members to air grievances. More recently, there has also been booing to communicate dissatisfaction with a certain leader.

Prominent stalwarts such as Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, Frene Ginwala and Andrew Mlangeni were in attendance.

Party leaders such as Jeff Radebe, Jessie Duarte, Lindiwe Sisulu and Jackson Mthembu were also spotted.

The week. conference ends next

Occupying the middle ground were members of Gauteng branches, appearing calm and collected.