A report details evidence of Russian agents working with ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula to influence South Africa's 2024 elections. The effort, described as failed, prompts questions over Mbalula's credibility and presidential prospects. Stephen Grootes analyses the spending and limited impact in Daily Maverick.
Daily Maverick's Weekend Wrap spotlights a story by Stephen Grootes on Russia's influence efforts in South Africa. The piece, titled “Russia’s failed influence campaign casts pall over Mbalula’s presidential run”, references a report with evidence that Russian “agents” collaborated with Fikile Mbalula, ANC secretary-general, aiming to sway the 2024 elections. This connection raises concerns about his personal credibility. Grootes also probes how the agents expended significant funds yet achieved minimal results. The development may hinder Mbalula’s future presidential ambitions, according to the summary. This item appears alongside coverage of fuel supply strains from Middle East tensions and other topics in the 21 March 2026 edition.