Former ANC deputy president Kgalema Montlanthe says that disgraced leaders in the party should own up to their mistakes and step down from their positions.<\/p>\n
He was speaking to the City Press in an exclusive interview, in which he was openly critical of the party and its many political missteps in recent years.<\/p>\n
According to Montlanthe, ANC leaders need to acknowledge when they are wrong, and have the conscience to step down to avoid further discrediting the party.<\/p>\n
He also said he believe that it is time for younger members to take over the party and, and for older members to make space for them.<\/p>\n
The politician’s comments come amid renewed calls for President Jacob Zuma to step down for a number of reasons – chiefly his move to fire former finance minister Nhlanhla Nene.<\/p>\n
Montlanthe alluded that the calls were warranted.<\/p>\n
“When we lower the bar, we settle for the lowest option…in terms of the national cause, you don’t have to play politics about it,” he was quoted saying.<\/p>\n
Referring to politicians and the scandals that follow them, the former deputy said that politicians should be guided by their conscience – and that once an image has been tainted, you can no longer hold others to account.<\/p>\n
“You can’t be a leader exercising leadership, and guide others and hold them accountable, if you have no ability to do so yourself,” he said.<\/p>\n
“It’s all about what your conscience tells you. You will remain compromised unless you own u and take responsibility for it.”<\/p>\n
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