ANC chief whip Stone Sizani has resigned from Parliament, according to sources in the ANC caucus.
The ANC convened an urgent meeting of its parliamentary caucus at 2pm today, to inform MPs of the development. The meeting was over within 10 minutes, with Sizani among the first MPs to leave the meeting held at Parliament’s Old Chamber venue in the Old Assembly Building.
Sources say Sizani resigned today with immediate effect; the day after leading the party’s caucus to a resounding victory over the DA’s motion of no confidence in President Jacob Zuma.
Political parties in Parliament normally hold their caucus meetings on Thursday mornings.
Sizani continues the trend of short-lived ANC chief whips.
He was appointed in June 2013 becoming the 11th ANC chief whip in 19 years.
“The issue of the new chief whip could not be finalised and Doris Dlakude, [Sizani’s deputy] will act until a decision has been made,” said the sources.
Spokesperson for the ANC caucus, Moloto Mothapo, wouldn’t confirm the news – only saying a statement will be issued shortly.
Sources also claimed that Sizani would be SA’s next ambassador to Germany.
Sizani’s phone went straight to voicemail.