Fikile Mbalula, born on April 8, 1971, is a prominent South African politician with a rich history of public service. As the current Secretary-General of the African National Congress (ANC) and former cabinet minister, Mbalula’s career has been marked by his rise from grassroots politics to national leadership. Here are 20 compelling facts that highlight the career and personal life of Fikile Mbalula.
1. Born on a Farm Near Botshabelo
Fikile Mbalula was born on April 8, 1971, on a farm outside Botshabelo, a township near Bloemfontein in the former Orange Free State (now part of the Free State province). His humble beginnings would later influence his drive to improve the lives of ordinary South Africans.
2. Political Activism from a Young Age
Mbalula’s political journey began in his teenage years. He became active in the Botshabelo Youth Congress, where he served as a leader from 1986 to 1987. His early involvement in the political landscape shaped his strong commitment to youth empowerment and social change.
3. Part of the ANC Youth League from the Start
In 1990, after the ANC was unbanned, Mbalula joined the ANC Youth League (ANCYL) and quickly rose through the ranks. He became Regional Secretary in 1991 and Provincial Secretary in 1994, marking the beginning of his influential career in youth leadership within the ANC.
4. National Youth League Secretary for Political Education
By 1996, Mbalula was appointed National Secretary for Political Education in the ANC Youth League, where he held the position until 1998. His leadership in the youth league was characterized by his focus on political education and the advancement of youth interests.
5. Elected National Secretary-General of the ANCYL
In 1998, Mbalula was elected as National Secretary-General of the ANC Youth League, serving alongside his close ally Malusi Gigaba, who was the President. This partnership would be key to Mbalula’s future in the ANC.
6. President of the ANCYL (2004-2008)
In 2004, Mbalula succeeded Malusi Gigaba as the President of the ANC Youth League. His unopposed election highlighted his strong position within the party. He held the position until 2008, shaping the future of the youth wing during his tenure.
7. International Youth Leader
During his time as ANCYL President, Mbalula also served as the President of the International Union of Socialist Youth in 2004, demonstrating his influence on the global stage and his commitment to youth issues worldwide.
8. A Key Figure in ANC Campaigns
Mbalula’s organizational skills were instrumental in the ANC’s election victories. He played a pivotal role in running the 2009 election campaign for the ANC, which saw Jacob Zuma elected as president. His strategic mind and political acumen made him a central figure in the party’s success.
9. Minister of Sport and Recreation (2010-2017)
Mbalula was appointed as Minister of Sport and Recreation in 2010 by President Zuma. During his tenure, he worked to elevate South Africa’s sports industry, focusing on improving infrastructure and promoting youth involvement in sports.
10. Minister of Police (2017-2018)
In 2017, Mbalula was appointed as Minister of Police under President Zuma. His tenure was marked by a focus on improving police performance and addressing issues related to crime and public safety in South Africa.
11. Minister of Transport (2019-2023)
In 2019, Mbalula returned to the cabinet as Minister of Transport, a position he held until 2023. His role was crucial in modernizing South Africa’s transport infrastructure, with a focus on improving safety and efficiency in the sector.
12. Resignation from Government for ANC Role
In 2023, Mbalula stepped down from his cabinet position as Minister of Transport in order to focus on his full-time role as Secretary-General of the ANC, which he won in December 2022 at the ANC’s 55th National Conference.
13. Social Media Star
Mbalula is known for his engaging social media presence. He was the most-followed South African cabinet minister on Twitter in 2022, where he often shares his thoughts, political insights, and even humorous posts, earning him the nickname “Razzmatazz”.
14. A Skilled Campaigner
Mbalula is often praised as a keen strategist and organizer. His ability to mobilize people and manage large campaigns has been central to the ANC’s election victories over the years. He’s often described as a “fixer” and a “spin doctor.”
15. Not Afraid to Speak His Mind
Known for his bold statements and unfiltered approach, Mbalula has gained a reputation for speaking his mind. His outspoken nature has made him a figure who commands attention in both political and public circles.
16. Falling Out with Zuma
Although Mbalula was an early supporter of Jacob Zuma, his relationship with the former president soured over time. In 2012, Mbalula’s unsuccessful bid to become ANC Secretary-General marked the beginning of tensions between him and Zuma, leading to a complex political dynamic within the party.
17. A Family Man
Mbalula is married to Nozuko Mbalula, and the couple has children. Despite his high-profile career, Mbalula has kept much of his personal life private, though his family is often mentioned in the media.
18. Controversy Surrounding Wife’s Legal Issues
In 2017, Mbalula’s wife was involved in a legal controversy when the Free State government filed a lawsuit, alleging she was a trustee of companies involved in R38 million in tender fraud. She denied any wrongdoing, maintaining that she had never received any money from the government.
19. Political Scandals and Allegations
Mbalula has faced political controversy throughout his career. One of the major allegations against him was his involvement in influencing the electoral process of the ANC Youth League, which led to accusations of interfering with internal elections in a bid to boost his political influence.
20. Future as ANC Secretary-General
As the Secretary-General of the ANC, Mbalula’s leadership will play a critical role in shaping the future direction of the party. With his strategic thinking, public presence, and deep roots in ANC politics, Mbalula is poised to be a central figure in South Africa’s political landscape for years to come.