ANC in KZN defends Mkhize, says he’s national leader
The African National Congress provincial secretary has jumped to the defence of Zweli Mkhize, saying the former minister is not only a leader from KZN but has garnered support nationally.
The ANC Youth League task team endorsed Mkhize as its preferred candidate for the position of party president, ahead of its elective conference in December.
It's a boost for the former health minister, who's also being supported by the ANC in KwaZulu-Natal.
Bheki Mtolo says there are some who seek to reduce Mkhize's reputation, calling him a local leader.
"They forget that Zweli Mkhize was elected in the NEC of the ANC in 2002. When he was elected the deputy chair in KwaZulu-Natal, he was also a directly elected member of the NEC."
READ: Mkhize eyes ANC top job: ‘We can’t afford another five years of directionless leadership’
"Then he was therefore elected treasurer-general. He has been a national leader, that is why he had got contacts and respect from various provinces because they know him as a national leader."
Speaking at a media briefing, Mtolo said the ANC Youth League was the first group in the organisation to throw its weight behind Mkhize.
"Imagine the ANC Youth League didn't nominate anybody else but Zweli Mkhize. Now you don't want to ask that question because it is going to. He has support.”
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