ANC leaders have been crisscrossing the Western Cape as part of the initiative titled “Build-Up Mobilisation Programme,” engaging with grassroots communities as part of the build-up to the 113th Anniversary celebration.
Picture courtesy: Phetolo Sematha
(The Post News)- On Saturday, January 11, 2025, the African National Congress (ANC) will commemorate 113 years since its founding with a grand rally at Mandela Park Stadium in Khayelitsha, Western Cape. This celebration honours more than a century of leadership, resilience, and struggle in forming South Africa’s socio-political landscape. ANC President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to deliver the January 8 Statement that will set the agenda for the year and reflecting on the state of the party, the nation, and the path forward.
As part of the build-up to the main event, senior ANC leaders have been engaging directly with communities in Khayelitsha through a comprehensive mobilisation programme an initiative that aims to reconnect with grassroots supporters and to address pressing local issues. ANC’s choice to hold this year’s January 8 Statement in Khayelitsha demonstrates its dedication to tackling the daily challenges citizens face and reestablishing connections with historically underprivileged communities, according to a statement released by Secretary General Fikile Mbalula.
Deputy President (DP) Paul Mashatile kicked off engagements by doing door-to-door campaigns in Khayelitsha and culminating in a community meeting to discuss interventions against extortion and issues related to undocumented immigrants and illegal spaza shop owners. A scuffle during one of his visits briefly disrupted the program, but he apologised and continued his outreach efforts.
National Chairperson Gwede Mantashe visited the Overberg region, meeting with residents and addressing community concerns. Meanwhile, First Deputy Secretary General Nomvula Mokonyane is connecting with supporters in the Dullah Omar Region; she urged members in the Eastern Cape to come and celebrate with them and shared that they need to work together, strengthen, and renew the people’s movement.
The ANC Women’s League, led by Secretary General Nokuthula Nqaba, visited the Dompas Museum in Langa to honour Mam’ Annie Silinga, a legendary anti-pass laws activist. The symbolic march to the museum paid tribute to the sacrifices of Silinga and countless others who fought against apartheid’s oppressive laws.
The January 8 Statement is expected to outline the ANC’s vision for tackling issues such as economic inequality, corruption, and service delivery failures. For many in Khayelitsha and beyond, Saturday’s event is a reminder of the ANC’s historic mission and an opportunity to hold the party accountable to its promises.
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