African National Congress (ANC) Responds to Alleged Rape and Death Threats Against March and March Leader Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma
The African National Congress (ANC) has condemned alleged rape and murder threats directed at Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma, leader of the March and March Movement, distancing the party from a social media user accused of making the disturbing remarks. The ANC says threats of sexual violence and murder have no place in political discourse, warning that political affiliation cannot excuse or justify calls for violence against activists.
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The ANC has condemned alleged rape and murder threats against Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma, stressing that political affiliation does not excuse threats of violence.
The ANC's response follows reports that Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma opened a criminal case at Durban Central Police Station over the alleged threats. The social media user reportedly presents himself as an ANC supporter and has allegedly indicated that he stands by the controversial remarks. The incident has renewed attention on online threats against political activists, gender-based violence, digital harassment and the need for authorities to investigate allegations of intimidation and violence. The ANC has also indicated that disciplinary action could follow if the individual is confirmed to be a party member.
"Vile and Reprehensible"
ANC national spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu delivered a scathing rebuke of the individual, ensuring the public that the party does not endorse or tolerate gender-based violence or death threats.
No Shield in Politics
Bhengu stated that the party condemned the alleged comments in the strongest possible terms, warning that political affiliation could not be used as a shield for threats of violence.
Incompatible with ANC Values
"If accurately attributed to him, such utterances are vile, reprehensible and wholly incompatible with the values, traditions and political culture of the ANC," the spokesperson remarked.
Zero Justification
The ANC stressed that there can be no political, personal, or ideological justification for inciting the rape or murder of another person, regardless of any deep-seated political disagreements between them.
Law Enforcement and Internal Discipline
The situation has escalated from an online spat to a formal criminal matter, with Ngobese-Zuma filing a case at the Durban Central Police Station.
Investigate Without Favour
The ANC officially called on law-enforcement authorities to investigate the allegations “without fear, favour or prejudice” and to act decisively if evidence of criminal conduct is established.
Social Media Not a Lawless Space
Addressing the broader issue of digital harassment, the party noted: "Social media is not a lawless space, and freedom of expression cannot be distorted into a licence to threaten, intimidate or incite violence."
Internal Disciplinary Processes
Bhengu confirmed that the ANC would institute severe internal disciplinary processes against the perpetrator if the investigation establishes that he is indeed a registered member of the party.
The Tension Behind the Threats
The severe threats against Ngobese-Zuma must be viewed against the backdrop of an increasingly volatile political climate surrounding immigration in South Africa.
Ngobese-Zuma's organisation is actively campaigning to drive undocumented foreign nationals from the country and has been highly critical of the ANC’s migration policies.
She has repeatedly placed the blame for the influx of undocumented migrants squarely on the ruling party's policies, making her a highly polarizing figure and a direct political adversary to loyalist ANC supporters. However, as the ANC pointed out, political rivalry can never justify gender-based violence or death threats.
Sona News Analysis
Drawing the Line
The ANC's rapid and unequivocal condemnation is a vital step in maintaining democratic decorum. In highly charged environments like South Africa's current immigration debate, it is easy for radical supporters to cross the line from political criticism into outright criminality. By distancing itself, the ANC removes the perceived "shield" of political protection from the abuser.
The Realities of Digital Accountability
The party's reminder that "social media is not a lawless space" echoes recent sentiments from the South African Human Rights Commission. However, the true test will be the speed and efficiency of the South African Police Service (SAPS) in identifying, arresting, and prosecuting the individual to set a legal precedent.
Weaponizing GBV in Politics
Once again, when a female political figure voices controversial or oppositional views, the backlash frequently devolves into threats of sexual violence. This tactic is used to humiliate and intimidate women out of the public sphere, proving that South Africa's crisis of Gender-Based Violence permeates even the highest levels of political discourse.
LOCAL ZIMBABWE NEWS / REGIONAL DESK
Report: Based on statements from ANC national spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu and SAPS reports.
Published: October 9, 2026
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