The African National Congress (ANC) has welcomed the voluntary decision by Dr Malusi Gigaba to step aside from his responsibilities following his court appearance on Tuesday. The party on Wednesday said the decision demonstrates discipline, maturity, and respect for organisational processes.
Acting National Spokesperson Nonceba Mhlauli said Gigaba’s step-aside decision aligns with the ANC Constitution and the resolutions of the party’s 55th National Conference. The conference reaffirmed that members formally charged with criminal offences should voluntarily step aside to protect the integrity and reputation of the movement.
“The ANC recognises comrade Gigaba’s decision as a clear affirmation of our renewal agenda and a demonstration that leaders remain bound by the solemn oath of membership,” Mhlauli said.
Gigaba appeared in the Palm Ridge Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, where he was formally charged by the Independent Directorate of Anti-Corruption (IDAC) with corruption. The charges relate to alleged irregularities in the awarding of contracts and financial dealings at Transnet, the state-owned transport and logistics company.
Gigaba joins a group of high-profile figures facing charges in the Transnet case, including former Eskom CEO Brian Molefe and other executives. The charges stem from investigations into irregularities in locomotive procurement and financial management at the state-owned entity.
The ANC emphasised that the step-aside rule is not a presumption of guilt but a responsible organisational measure to safeguard public confidence while legal processes unfold. Mhlauli said the voluntary nature of Gigaba’s decision reflects a commitment to accountability and ethical leadership.
“His decision strengthens the collective efforts of the ANC to rebuild trust, reinforce accountability, and demonstrate that no individual stands above the organisation,” Mhlauli said.
The step-aside rule was introduced to ensure that party members facing formal criminal charges do not hold positions that could compromise the organisation’s integrity. The ANC has previously applied the rule to other senior members, including former Secretary-General Ace Magashule, who stepped aside amid corruption charges linked to the Free State asbestos project.
Political analysts say Gigaba’s decision may have been influenced by the ongoing investigations and mounting legal pressure. By stepping aside, he allows the legal process to continue without distraction while reinforcing the ANC’s message that accountability and transparency remain central to the party’s leadership standards.
The ANC said it values leaders who uphold the principles of revolutionary morality, organisational discipline, and public trust. The party expressed appreciation for Gigaba’s voluntary decision, noting it demonstrates a commitment to protecting the unity, values, and reputation of the movement.
