Violence erupted at an African National Congress (ANC) branch general meeting in Muswodi, near Musina, on Saturday, 7 February, leaving five people hospitalised and prompting condemnation from the party’s Vhembe structures. The meeting was held for Ward 11, an area known for previous violent outbursts.
From what could be established, the incident took place when members who disagreed over preferred candidates for the ANC’s provincial conference in Polokwane in March attempted to settle scores physically. In the ensuing chaos, five people were admitted to hospital after being shot with rubber bullets by security officers.
As the race to the ANC’s elective conference in Polokwane next month heats up, ANC leaders in Vhembe have called on members to remain calm. Incidents of violence among members of the ruling party have become increasingly frequent, with many cases reported across the country.
Regional secretary Matodzi Ralushai said ANC members knew that any dispute at an ANC meeting must be resolved internally. “We will contact all the comrades and request them to refer their dispute to the ANC,” Ralushai said.
It is alleged that the trouble began when members not in good standing with the ANC constitution were locked out of the meeting. They allegedly forced their way into the venue and clashed with security officers.
“We will investigate their presence at the ANC meeting. The branch will submit a comprehensive report with recommendations to the regional office. Should we find that any member of the ANC is involved, internal disciplinary action will be taken against such members for gross misconduct of, but not limited to, bringing the ANC into disrepute,” Ralushai said.