News
ANCYL hits out at McKenzie and Holomisa: ‘Not leadership material’
A public dressing-down
The ANC Youth League has taken a firm stand against two of South Africa’s more outspoken political figures, accusing them of undermining the very idea of leadership. Speaking at a media briefing in Johannesburg, Youth League president Collen Malatji called out Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie and Deputy Defence Minister Bantu Holomisa, saying their behaviour has exposed them as reckless and unprepared for the responsibilities of governance.
Malatji did not mince his words. “These incidents expose a critical truth. Many of these parties are not ready to lead South Africa. They are driven only by populism and self-interest,” he said.
The flashpoints
McKenzie finds himself at the centre of a storm after the SA Human Rights Commission reopened an investigation into old social media posts, including alleged use of racial slurs and xenophobic remarks from 2011. The minister has flatly denied the allegations, insisting his record reflects a consistent anti-racist stance. He has also accused the Commission of defaming him by publicising the claims before allowing him a proper hearing.
Holomisa, meanwhile, drew fire during a live radio interview on Gagasi FM. When pressed by a critical caller who accused him of arrogance, the veteran politician shot back with a blunt “go to hell.” Even when urged by the presenter to retract the remark, Holomisa doubled down, telling the host he could go to hell as well. The exchange was widely circulated online, sparking debate over whether political leaders should be held to higher standards of public decorum.
Tensions inside the GNU
The Government of National Unity was supposed to mark a new chapter of collaboration, yet it has been increasingly marked by infighting. Malatji used the moment to warn that opposition parties inside the GNU, particularly the Democratic Alliance, have been undermining government protocols. According to him, the conduct of opposition leaders has revealed a lack of seriousness about governing.
The ANC has long painted itself as the anchor of the GNU, but the constant skirmishes, from parliamentary spats to radio soundbites, have left many South Africans questioning whether this coalition can hold.
Public reaction
On social media, McKenzie’s resurfaced tweets reignited polarised debates. Supporters insist his critics are dredging up the past to discredit him, while detractors argue that a Cabinet minister should be beyond reproach. Holomisa’s “go to hell” moment has been clipped and shared widely, with many users joking about his bluntness while others raised concern about the tone of those entrusted with national security responsibilities.
A bigger question
Malatji’s comments point to a broader unease: what kind of leadership does South Africa need right now? In a time of economic strain, service delivery failures, and international scrutiny, reckless soundbites and personal feuds may erode public trust further. The ANC Youth League has positioned itself as a moral compass, but whether its critique will lead to real change inside the GNU remains to be seen.
Also read: ANCYL President Tells Home Affairs Minister to “Pull Up His Socks” on Immigration and Corruption
Follow Joburg ETC on Facebook, Twitter, TikT
For more News in Johannesburg, visit joburgetc.com
Source: IOL
Featured Image: Virgo
