The ANC parliamentary caucus is in disarray, and it’s playing out within the context of factionalism.

Political analyst, Dr Ralph Mathekga says that this is evident in the disciplinary action being taken against ANC Member of Parliament, Mervyn Dirks.

He has been suspended for asking the Standing Committee on Public Accounts (Scopa) to call in President Cyril Ramaphosa over the ANC’s alleged use of State funds for party campaigns.

Mathekga says that Dirks is clearly breaking the party’s ranks.

But he maintains that these kinds of probing questions must come from within the party, to ensure proper accountability.

Meanwhile, Scopa chair, Mkhuleko Hlengwa says that the committee’s work will not be compromised by party political activities or factions.

Hlengwa says that Scopa must rise above party politics, and will be guided by the rules of the National Assembly, the Constitution and applicable legislation.

Hlengwa says that Dirks’ application will not be affected by his suspension, and is subject to the existing parliamentary processes.