South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, strikes back after vote-buying accusation

Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, has denied accusations that he was involved in vote-buying at the ANC’s National Conference.

His denial comes after ANC stalwart and former presidential candidate, Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, accused him of vote-buying.

Dlamini-Zuma made these allegations during an interview with Mbuyiseni Ndlozi on the African Renaissance Podcast.

During the interview, she referenced actions by Lamola during the ANC’s 54th National Conference in 2017, where Cyril Ramaphosa was elected President.

“You remember there was also a voice thing from Lamola saying they’re waiting for the money because this thing is going to be disturbed if the money doesn’t come,” she said.

This suggested that Lamola was potentially involved in vote-buying at the ANC’s elective conference. He denied any involvement in such activities.

He said that he noted with concern and disappointment the remarks Dlamini-Zuma made recently on a podcast with Ndlozi.

“You are a leader I have long held in high esteem throughout my years of activism in the African National Congress,” he said.

“These comments seek to associate my name with alleged vote-buying activities during the ANC’s 54th National Conference in 2017.”

“I categorically deny any involvement in vote-buying, whether through phone calls, voice notes, or any other medium, during that conference or at any other time.”

“Furthermore, my voice and manner of speech are well known to many comrades, and any fair-minded person can clearly discern that the voice in question is not mine.”

He said that he is approaching Dlamini-Zuma in a comradely manner to retract the statement, or face potential legal action.

“It would pain me to take legal action against an ANC veteran with distinguished struggle credentials,” he said.

“I believe our movement has internal mechanisms and a culture of comradely engagement that should be exhausted before legal routes are pursued.”

“It is not in my nature to turn every political disagreement into a courtroom battle. Nevertheless, I urge you, Comrade, to reconsider the allegations you have made.”

He said that Dlamini-Zuma should publicly retract the statement and apologise, in the spirit of unity, discipline, and respect that the ANC demands.