Eastern Cape ANC branches make 'Zuma-must-go' call

The call was made in branch meetings and by the ANC Youth League at the weekend.

Heated meetings in the two metros saw frustrated ANC members voicing their frustrations over Zuma's presidency.

It is understood that delegates blamed Zuma's association with the Gupta family and the R246-million upgrade to his Nkandla homestead for the ANC's poor performance in the recent poll, which saw the party lose control of Nelson Mandela Bay, among others.

Delegates attending the ANC Youth League general council in East London on Sunday called for Zuma's removal.

The closed meeting was attended by ANC secretary-general Gwede Mantashe.

Home Affairs Minister and ANC NEC member Malusi Gigaba and Eastern Cape ANC deputy chairman Sakhumzi Somyo met branches and councillors on Sunday.

It did not take long before Zuma became the topic for the day, with speakers attributing the ANC's worst performance in an election to the president.

At the East London meeting the issue of Zuma's removal was first brought up by ANC Yure Mdyogolo branch member Thabang Maseko, who advised Mantashe that "instead of risking losing the elections in 2019, the president needs to go, even if it means him taking a long sick leave", according to sources.

The ANC Youth League said there was no need for the ANC to call an early elective conference and that Zuma had to go instead.

ANC provincial secretary Oscar Mabuyane did not comment.