The African National Congress (ANC), on Tuesday, emphatically denied approaching the uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP) to join the Government of National Unity (GNU).

This comes following the release of an audio clip, purportedly with the voice of MKP leader Jacob Zuma claiming that the ANC had approached the MKP to join the GNU and exclude the Democratic Alliance from the coalition.

The ANC said while the authenticity of the audio was not verified, and while Zuma has not acknowledged the contents of the clip, “The ANC categorically states that it has not approached Mr. Zuma or the MKP to join the Government of National Unity. No such discussions have taken place.”

The party said, if indeed spoken by Zuma, the claims would be misleading as the ANC has no strategy to marginalise any GNU party.

“Such allegations—unverified and untested—risk misleading the public, sowing confusion, and eroding trust. They are particularly regrettable when made, or believed to be made, by individuals who have held high office and carry a responsibility to uphold the truth in public discourse,"the ANC said.

The ANC urged “political maturity” and responsible leadership, saying its focus was on serving South Africans.

“We reaffirm that the GNU is not a transactional convenience alliance, but a constitutional mechanism to secure inclusive governance, defend democratic gains, and accelerate transformation in the interest of the people of South Africa,” the ANC said.