HE stands accused of fraud and corruption in the courts, but now he says he will change Mzansi people’s lives for the better.
Former ANC secretary-general Ace Magashule launched his new political party, the African Congress for Transformation (ACT), on Wednesday, 30 August, on Vilakazi Street, Soweto.
He said the party was going to shake up South Africa.
“Here we are going to announce a new ship for freedom, and I want to say to all South Africans, here is a ship of freedom. Come along and join us and all those who are weary and politically abused,” said Magashule.
He claimed the ANC had neglected the people, particularly blacks, who helped it fight for freedom.
He claimed the ruling party was controlled by the DA and white monopoly capital, who wanted state assets to be privatised.
“Our roads are killing fields. Our people have to deal with load shedding, water shedding, job shedding and life shedding. It has become our second nature," Magashule said.
Magashule, a close ally of former president Jacob Zuma, was expelled from the ANC in January and is facing criminal charges in the Bloemfontein High Court in Free State.
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He allegedly benefited from a project to remove asbestos from homes in that province.
He said the slogan of ACT is #Amadelakufa (defiance of death), and it came from the resilience of freedom fighters who never sold out even when tortured during the struggle.
“We are making a clarion call that wherever you are, in villages, small towns and cities, come join us. We are a new political home for the homeless and the betrayed. We are willing to sail together to the true destination of freedom.
“Here is a new ship to freedom. Come all and join us in your numbers. All those who have been abused, come home," Magashule said.
He claimed the party already has branches across Mzansi and would rely on donations and proceeds from selling regalia to sustain the organisation.
Magashule said he wished his trial had started so he could tell the truth about the corruption in the Free State.
“I have not taken even one cent from asbestos. I wish I had already taken the stand in that case so that you could hear the truth. You will know who is corrupt," he said.
Magashule denied he wanted to join the EFF but admitted he had engagements with EFF leader Julius Malema, and they will continue to engage.
