The African National Congress (ANC) is convening an unprecedented six-day National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting to address the party’s disappointing performance in the 2024 elections. Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula has described the results as a “calamity” and emphasized the need for strategic thinking and renewal.
The meeting, proposed by Mbalula and his management team, will focus on analyzing the election report, assessing the current state of the party, and planning a way forward to arrest the decline. They will also engage in strategic thinking and planning for the National Executive Committee, allies, and employees.
Mbalula has acknowledged the severity of the situation, stating that the party’s reduced majority and entry into the era of coalitions require a change of approach. He has emphasized the need for renewal, which has been on the party’s agenda for over a decade and a half.
However, concerns remain about the ANC’s ability to renew itself, particularly given the deployment of leaders facing corruption charges to prominent parliamentary positions. Mbalula has defended the move, citing the party’s step-aside rules, but has acknowledged the need for the NEC to revisit the matter.
Mbalula has also addressed the looming succession race, emphasizing the need for leaders to avoid fueling tensions and prioritizing the party’s interests over personal ambitions. He has expressed his hope to leave a legacy associated with the restoration, not demise, of the ANC.
The outcome of this unprecedented NEC meeting will be crucial in determining the future direction of the ANC and its ability to address the “calamity” of the 2024 election results.
Photo: Itumeleng English | African News Agency (ANA)
