"We believe that it would have been possible to resolve differences within the structures of the ANC if there was a genuine will to debate the issues in good faith," Sadtu said in a statement.

"We suspect, however, that the decision to exit the ANC was taken long ago, and that the recent pronouncements of Comrade Lekota amount to a publicity stunt to drum up interest in the splinter grouping.

"Sadtu leadership is confident that our 235 000 members will not be misled by the lies of the disgruntled elements represented by Lekota."

"These elements have cut themselves off from the democratic traditions of the ANC," the union said.

The divisions are just too deep and the way the ANC axed President Mbeki cuts right to the heart of their discontent. Frankly I hope the ANC splinters as it will loosen their grip on power. The only problem is that it may splinter along tribal lines which is worrying.