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The African National Congress (ANC) in KwaZulu-Natal has refused to apologize after its provincial chairperson, Siboniso Duma, grabbed the microphone from Zulu Prime Minister Thulasizwe Buthelezi during a speech at a commemoration event on Saturday. The incident led to injuries among ANC supporters allegedly attacked by men in traditional Zulu regalia.
Addressing the media on Wednesday, ANC provincial secretary Bheki Mtolo stated the party fully supported Duma’s actions, despite his personal apology to Zulu King Misuzulu kaZwelithini and President Cyril Ramaphosa, who were in attendance.
“Duma was brave and stopped Buthelezi. The option he chose prevented potential bloodshed,” Mtolo said, alleging Buthelezi intended to launch political attacks under the guise of his traditional leadership role.
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube accused Buthelezi of inciting the attacks on ANC members after the microphone incident, claiming he led an “ambush” with a war cry. However, no evidence was provided.
Tensions have escalated between the ANC and the opposition Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) ahead of general elections on May 29. The ANC alleged the IFP was behind the attacks, which the IFP denied.
In an effort to de-escalate, the ANC provincial leadership has requested talks with IFP president Velenkosini Hlabisa to diffuse political tensions in the province.
The incident at the King Dinuzulu commemoration has raised concerns over potential violence during the election campaign period in the politically volatile KwaZulu-Natal.
