Biography
Tony Sithembiso Yengenin (born 11 October 1954), a respected figure in South African politics, has dedicated his life to public service as a member of the African National Congress (ANC). Known as a politician, his remarkable journey began amid the tumultuous anti-apartheid movement, where he played a key role in the negotiations that led to the dismantling of apartheid.
Today, Tony Yengeni continues his political endeavours, serving as the respected chairman of the ANC’s crime and corruption commission, a key position that highlights his commitment to upholding integrity and combating societal challenges. In the hallowed halls of the South African Parliament, his voice echoes as he advocates for progress and fair governance.
Tony Yengeni’s contributions have left an indelible mark on the political scene, illustrating the power of resilience and relentless dedication. His steadfast pursuit of justice, equality and social progress inspires both current and future generations, lighting the fire of passion and inspiring people to strive for a brighter future.
South African politician
Tony Yengeni |
|
|---|---|
 Tony Yengeni: History ‧ Biography ‧ Photos |
|
| Wiki Events & About Data | |
| Full name: | Tony Sithembiso Yengeni |
| Stage name: | Tony Yengeni |
| Born: | October 11, 1954 (age 69) |
| Place of birth: | Cape Town, South Africa |
| Education: | Fort Beaufort High School, |
| Nationality: | South Africa |
| Height: | 1.57 minutes |
| Parents: | Leslie Yengeni, Olive Yengeni |
| Siblings: | Themba Yengeni, Nozipho Yengeni |
| Couple: | Lumka Nyamza Yengeni (m. 1984) |
| Girlfriend • Partner: | Do not have |
| The children: | Mandla Yengeni, Nandi Yengeni |
| Job: | Politician |
| Net worth: | 5 million dollars |
Early life and education
Tony Yengeni, a prominent figure in South African politics, was born on 11 October 1954 in Cape Town. Growing up in the vibrant townships of Gugulethu and Nyanga, he embarked on a journey that would shape his destiny. He attended Fort Beaufort High Schoollaid the foundation for his future endeavors.
In the early 1970s, Tony Yengeni’s involvement in Black consciousness movement (BCM) has demonstrated its commitment to the eradication of apartheid. Join African National Congress (ANC) in 1976 marked a turning point in his life, putting him at the heart of the struggle against apartheid.
Tony Yengeni’s family includes his brother, Themba Yengeni, and sister, Nozipho Yengeni, who have been invaluable in their support. His father, Leslie Yengeni, is a businessman, while his mother, Olive Yengeni, who is deceased, played a major role in shaping his personality.
After the 1976 Soweto uprising, he went into exile and received military training at ANC camps across Botswana, Zambia and Angola. He then studied in Moscow, earning a social science degree in 1982.
Tony Yengeni returned to South Africa in 1985, only to be arrested and held incommunicado for months. Undeterred, he continued his political activities after his release and won a seat on the ANC’s national executive committee in 1991.
In 1994, he was elected to the South African National Assembly and served as Chief Organiser of the ANC from 1994 to 1999. He was appointed Minister of Public Enterprises in 1999 but faced a conviction for fraud related to an arms deal. Despite being sentenced to four years in prison, Yengeni remained involved in politics and eventually rejoined the ANC’s National Executive Committee.
Tony Yengeni’s journey has been one of both admiration and criticism. Although he was praised for his contributions to the anti-apartheid movement, his involvement in the arms scandal has tarnished his reputation. However, he continues to wield influence in South African politics.
Educationally, Tony Yengeni earned his high school diploma from Fort Beaufort College and studied political science in Moscow, graduating in 1982.
Career
Tony Yengeni, a remarkable figure in post-apartheid South Africa, returned to his homeland in triumph after the end of apartheid. In the pivotal moment of the 1994 general election, he emerged as the resolute winner, winning a coveted seat in Parliament and embarking on a fascinating political adventure.
From 1994 to 1999, Yengeni assumed leadership as he chaired the Joint Standing Committee on Defence, steering the ship of national security with acumen and purpose. His clear-sighted leadership and unwavering commitment drew the attention of African National Congress (ANC), which earned him the prestigious position of Chief Speaker of the National Assembly in 1999, where his influence was widespread.
However, the story took an unexpected turn when Tony Yengeni found himself entangled in a legal quagmire, involving allegations of fraud and corruption relating to the arms trade. In 2003, the hammer of justice came down, and a four-year prison sentence was later suspended. In the wake of this storm, Yengeni resigned from Parliament, casting a shadow over his once illustrious career.
True to his indomitable spirit, however, Tony Yengeni refused to retreat into the shadows. His political fire continued to burn as he remained actively involved in governance. In 2007, he regained his place among the elite of the ANC National Executive Committee, a testament to his enduring influence within the party. Political fortunes turned in his favour once again when he secured re-election to Parliament in 2009, rising to the pivotal role of chairing the Portfolio Committee on Public Enterprises from 2009 to 2014, where he wielded considerable power and oversight.
Yet Tony Yengeni’s enigmatic legacy has cast a subtle shadow over the South African political landscape. Admiration has mingled with scepticism as his name has been linked to corruption allegations and links to arms trafficking, leaving a divisive mark on public opinion. Yet his appeal has endured, and his enduring popularity within parts of the ANC is testament to his enduring appeal. 2018 marked another milestone in his journey when he took on the role of chair of the ANC’s crime and corruption commission, bringing his insights and experience to bear on the complex web of corruption.
Social media
- Twitter: @TonyYengeni
- Facebook: Tony Yengeni
- Instagram: tonyyengeni
Personal life
Tony Yengeni is a South African politician who has been married to Lumka Nyamza Yengeni since 1984. They have two children, Nandi and Amandlabantu.
Tony and Lumka Nyamza Yengeni have been blessed with two children who bring them endless joy. Their son, Mandla Yengeni, and daughter, Nandi Yengeni, complete their loving family unit.
Net worth
Tony Yengeni’s net worth is estimated to be around $5 million. He is a South African politician and has been a Member of Parliament since 1994.
Yengeni is a member of African National Congress (ANC) and has held several ministerial positions, including Minister of Transport and Public Works. He is also a businessman and has shares in several companies.
