Terror Lekota and his people claim to be the custodians of the Freedom Charter, but this is a fallacy.

Terror Lekota and his people claim to be the custodians of the Freedom Charter, but this is a fallacy.

Recent developments in the ANC show that these people have veered away from the traditions of the movement and have failed to uphold the principle of collective decision-making.

Their real problem is not that the ANC has diverted from the Freedom Charter, but that they are no longer senior ANC office-bearers as confirmed at the Polokwane conference.

Former president Thabo Mbeki is responsible for the situation the movement finds itself in. He was a leader who surrounded himself with people he could use and abuse.

The late Steve Tshwete claimed that comrades with impeccable credentials and abilities - Cyril Ramaphosa, Mathews Phosa and Tokyo Sexwale - tried to overthrow Mbeki. We are still waiting for Mbeki to denounce that claim. Mbeki was intimidated by these men and tried to damage their reputations.

Others who were blinded by loyalty and who were used by Mbeki include Bulelani Ngcuka, Smuts Ngonyama and the Pahad brothers.

The late Harry Gwala said some people joined the ANC out of conviction while others joined out of convenience.

Madiba was also against Mbeki being president.

Lazarus Nsiki, Letsitele