Three ANC members, Lwazi Rotya, Sinethemba Mpande, and Nompumelelo Mzothwa, are currently challenging internal suspension notices issued by the party’s Interim Provincial Task Team (PTT) in the Eastern Cape. The suspension notices, served on 4 June 2026, follow a long-running dispute regarding the members’ involvement in a successful interdict against a provincial elective conference in March 2026.
Legal Stand-Off And Allegations Of Contempt
Legal representatives for the three members have formally disputed the validity of both the PTT and the disciplinary actions taken against their clients. They have accused the ANC of acting in a retaliatory manner, suggesting that the suspensions are a punitive measure for the members exercising their constitutional rights.
The intimidating conduct your letter inflicts on our clients is another sign of the violation of the court order. This is also a clear defeat of the ends of justice when you intend to punish our clients for exercising their constitutional rights.
Furthermore, the lawyers have issued a stern warning to ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula, cautioning that he risks being held in contempt of court. This potential contempt charge relates to allegations that the party has failed to disclose necessary raw data required by the court to justify its management of provincial conference processes.
Internal Conflict And Party Governance
The PTT in the Eastern Cape was established following the expiration of the Provincial Executive Committee (PEC) to oversee party governance and mitigate internal friction. The body has faced substantial pressure throughout 2026, as stakeholders navigate intense power struggles between provincial chairperson Oscar Mabuyane and secretary Lulama Ngcukayitobi.
This latest legal skirmish reflects a broader trend of dissatisfaction among party members regarding internal audit processes and the legitimacy of appointed provincial structures. The ongoing litigation highlights the persistent struggle between central party directives and the rights of individual members to seek judicial recourse when they feel internal processes have been compromised. Future developments in this case are expected to depend on whether the party complies with the court-ordered data disclosure requirements.