ActionSA national chairperson Michael Beaumont noted on Friday that patronage politics has no place in ActionSA, announcing the resignation of its Limpopo provincial chairperson Letsiri Phaahla and termination of his party membership.

This after the party learnt about Phaahla joining the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party, associated with former President Jacob Zuma.

Beaumont explained that ActionSA leadership had received communication from Phaahla on Thursday on his intent to resign, citing resource-related challenges.

However, Beaumont said that it was later found out that Phaahla had been negotiating his membership with the MK Party for some time, while “extolling the virtues of ActionSA” in the campaign.

He alleged that Phaahla was offered considerable financial inducement to join MK, according to “credible sources”.

Beaumont said Phaahla’s move was an indictment on himself.

“Any person who leaves ActionSA to join MK clearly has been ideologically confused and, clearly, has a casual commitment to the notion of ethical leadership if they align with the values of Former President Zuma,” said Beaumont.

He said patronage politics had become too common in South Africa and candidate deadlines have become “like transfer windows” for those whose political alignment is for sale.

“ActionSA welcomes the departure of such compromised leaders from its ranks prior to an election before they sit in a legislature where they abuse the role of public servant for their own ends,” Beaumont said.

He announced that Victor Mothemela – having served as the head of the party’s campaigns in the province since 2022 – will take on the role of provincial chairperson.

He said Mothemela had served as a Corporal in the South African Defence Force and a Detective Sergeant in the South African Police Service before going into business.