What the Case Is About
ANC NEC member Nkosazana Dlamini‑Zuma and ANC Secretary‑General Fikile Mbalula are involved in a defamation dispute. The conflict started after Dlamini‑Zuma claimed, in an interview on the African Renaissance Podcast, that Mbalula handed out money to delegates during the ANC’s 2022 National Conference to win his election as secretary‑general and to help Cyril Ramaphosa stay as ANC president. Mbalula denies the accusation and asked the court to force Dlamini‑Zuma to take back her words and apologise.
Court’s Ruling on Oral Evidence
Acting Judge Henno Viljoen reviewed the case on 2 October 2026. Instead of granting Mbalula’s request for a retraction and apology, the judge decided that the core disagreement could not be settled just by reading written statements. The court ordered that the factual dispute be examined through oral evidence from the parties involved and from witnesses.
Who Will Testify?
The judge directed that Mbalula, Dlamini‑Zuma, and ANC member Mandla Themba Sibiya give oral testimony. Both leaders must also be ready for cross‑examination, meaning they will answer questions from the other side’s legal team under oath.
Dlamini‑Zuma’s Reaction
Dlamini‑Zuma welcomed the judge’s decision, noting that the court did not order her to retract or apologise. She said she will cooperate fully with the legal process and will not discuss the matter further in public out of respect for the court.
Why the Case Matters for the ANC
Dlamini‑Zuma pointed out that the case highlights a broader issue: the influence of money in the ANC’s internal elections. She believes the party needs to confront how financial incentives might affect leadership contests and decision‑making.
Conclusion
The Johannesburg High Court has chosen to let the truth emerge through spoken testimony rather than a quick written order. As the ANC leaders prepare to give their versions of events, the case serves as a reminder of the importance of transparency and accountability within the party’s internal processes. The outcome could influence how the ANC handles future elections and addresses concerns about money in politics.
