ANC's national general council meeting underway in Boksburg
The African National Congress (ANC) is experiencing a significant transformation, with Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula expressing confidence in the party’s renewal agenda. Mbalula highlighted the recent decisions by scandal-tainted senior figures, including suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu and Member of Parliament Malusi Gigaba, to step aside from party duties as evidence of the organization’s commitment to integrity and ethical leadership.
Time For Accountability
The ANC has shifted its stance on accountability, adopting a “step aside” approach, which has been confirmed by the Constitutional Court. This move demonstrates the party’s dedication to renewal and cleaning up its act. However, political commentator Sandile Swana notes that this also underscores the extent of the ANC’s troubles, pointing to issues such as inaccurate membership records and internal conflicts.
The party’s National General Council (NGC) is currently underway, with discussions focusing on organizational renewal, government performance, and socioeconomic reconstruction. Mbalula emphasized that the ANC is prioritizing renewal over leadership battles, with President Cyril Ramaphosa calling on the party to focus on fighting poverty, hunger, and inequality.
The ANC’s leadership in KwaZulu-Natal is facing changes, with Mbalula expressing disappointment in the Provincial Task Team’s performance. The team has been criticized for prioritizing positions over rebuilding the organization. In Gauteng, Mbalula condemned speculation about potential mayoral changes, emphasizing the need for the party to focus on winning the 2026 Local Government Elections.
ANC Faces Internal Challenges
The ANC is grappling with internal challenges, including a shifting political landscape and criticism from alliance partners. The party’s rejection of the South African Communist Party’s (SACP) dual membership has sparked tensions, with the SACP adamant about contesting elections independently.
Mbalula has dismissed succession talks, emphasizing the party’s focus on policy and governance. The NGC is reviewing the mid-term implementation of resolutions from the last ANC conference, with a focus on addressing poverty, inequality, and unemployment.
The ANC’s renewal agenda is crucial to its future success, with the party recognizing the need for ideological clarity and a commitment to serving the people. As Mbalula noted, the ANC must prioritize its core values and principles to remain a relevant force in South African politics.
The party’s ability to address its internal challenges and focus on renewal will be key to its success in the upcoming elections. With the 2026 Local Government Elections on the horizon, the ANC is under pressure to get its house in order.
Mbalula’s frank assessment has shed light on the ANC’s troubles, but it also highlights the party’s determination to reform. The outcome of the NGC will be crucial in determining the ANC’s future trajectory.
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