Experts criticise Mantashe’s response to sex-for-jobs allegations

ANC national chairperson Gwede Mantashe has been criticised for his isiXhosa response to a question about allegations that ANC councillors demanded sex from women in exchange for jobs. He told the journalist not to involve the ANC in matters concerning people who were “asking for a vagina”, using the term “isibumbu”, which some consider offensive. ANC Women’s League secretary-general Nokuthula Nqaba said his remarks trivialised sexual exploitation and failed to address abuse of power. The ANC said it had directed Mantashe to offer a sincere apology and considered the matter closed.