Cracks inside Mmusi Maimane’s party, Build One South Africa (Bosa), have raised questions about the survival of his political career and the longevity of his party. This comes after Bosa on Thursday stated it had terminated the membership of one of its founding members, Ayanda Allie. Ayanda Allie removed from Bosa Allie served as the party’s representative in the Gauteng legislature and played a prominent role in holding Panyaza Lesufi’s government of provincial unity (GPU) accountable.
The decision to remove Allie comes after an internal disciplinary process. BOSA did not say why the disciplinary process was necessary. “Over an extended period, Bosa undertook repeated efforts through engagement, consultation, and mediation to resolve the matter amicably.
Despite these efforts, it became evident that there was no viable basis upon which the matter could be resolved. “In accordance with the party’s constitution, Ms Allie was afforded the opportunity to appeal the board’s decision but has elected not to exercise that right. “The board’s decision is therefore final.
Bosa thanks Ayanda for her service to the party and to the people of Gauteng,” said BOSA board chairperson Stevens Mokgalapa in a statement. The Citizen contacted Maimane for comment on the matter but he had not responded by the time of publication. Allie also told The Citizen that she would give a comment to the media when she is ready.
Political analyst Theo Neethling told The Citizen on Friday that this latest development raises more questions than answers about the future of Bosa. “Mmusi Maimane’s political career highlights the difference between personal popularity and building a sustainable political organisation. “As the first black leader of the DA and leader of the opposition, he became one of South Africa’s most recognisable political figures.
However, much of that prominence was linked to the DA’s institutional strength, resources and parliamentary platform. “Since leaving the DA, Maimane has struggled to convert his personal profile into electoral success. “Although Bosa entered the 2024 elections with relatively high expectations, its performance was disappointing, suggesting that name recognition alone is insufficient to establish a significant political party in South Africa’s increasingly fragmented opposition landscape,” he said.
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