By Nco Dube | 10 January 2025

As the African National Congress (ANC) approaches its 112th anniversary on January 8, 2025, in Khayelitsha, Cape Town, the party finds itself navigating a complex landscape marked by internal strife and external pressures. This significant milestone not only commemorates the ANC’s historical role in South Africa’s liberation struggle but also serves as a critical moment for reflection on its current state, both internally and in government. The challenges facing the ANC today are emblematic of broader socio-political dynamics in South Africa, where issues of leadership, public trust, and socio-economic development are at the forefront of the national discourse.

Internal State of the ANC

Leadership Challenges

The leadership of the ANC under President Cyril Ramaphosa has been a topic of considerable debate and scrutiny. Ramaphosa came to power with a self-imposed mandate to restore integrity and accountability to a party that had been tarnished by years of corruption and mismanagement under President Jacob Zuma’s presidency. However, his tenure has been characterised by significant factionalism within the party, which has undermined his ability to govern effectively, as well as corruption and mismanagement that has carried on unabated.

Factionalism in the ANC is not a new phenomenon. The party has long been divided into various groups that often prioritise their own interests over collective goals. The most prominent factions today include the remnants of the “Radical Economic Transformation” (RET) faction, which advocated for more aggressive economic reforms but which has now rallied around opposition to the GNU, and those aligned with Ramaphosa’s more centrist approach and proponents of the GNU. This internal division has resulted in a lack of cohesion on key policy issues, leading to confusion and frustration among both party members and the electorate.

The ongoing power struggles within the ANC have led to concerns about leadership effectiveness. Ramaphosa’s attempts to unify the party have often been met with resistance from powerful factions that seek to maintain their influence. This has created an environment where decision-making is slow and often contentious, further eroding public confidence in the ANC’s ability to govern. Having a weak, incompetent but loud Secretary-General in Fikile Mbalula at Luthuli House has not helped matters in whipping the party into shape.

Membership and Support Base

The ANC’s membership numbers have seen a troubling decline in recent years, reflecting a growing disillusionment among its traditional support base. Once regarded as the liberators of South Africa, many citizens now view the ANC with scepticism, particularly in urban areas like Khayelitsha where poverty and unemployment remain rampant. The party’s failure to deliver on its promises has led to a sense of betrayal among its supporters.

In Khayelitsha, a community grappling with high levels of unemployment, crime and inadequate services, many residents feel abandoned by the very organisation that once fought for their rights. This disillusionment is particularly pronounced among young people who are increasingly disengaged from formal politics. The ANC Youth League, once a vibrant force within the party, has struggled to attract young members who are frustrated by political patronage and corruption.

The demographic shifts within South Africa also pose challenges for the ANC. As younger generations come of age, they are more inclined to seek alternatives that resonate with their aspirations for economic empowerment and social justice. If the ANC fails to engage meaningfully with this demographic, it risks losing its relevance in an evolving political landscape.

Policy Direction and Internal Discontent

The ANC’s policy direction has become a contentious issue within its ranks. Key areas such as land reform, economic policy, and service delivery have sparked intense debates among party members. While some factions advocate for radical changes to address historical injustices, others caution against potential economic repercussions that could arise from hasty reforms.

Land reform remains one of the most polarising issues within the ANC. The party has committed itself to addressing land dispossession as part of its broader mandate for social justice; however, disagreements over how to implement these reforms have led to paralysis within government structures. Critics argue that without clear policies and decisive action, land reform will remain an unfulfilled promise that further alienates voters.

Moreover, recent controversies surrounding state capture inquiries and selective prosecution have intensified internal discontent within the ANC. As allegations of corruption continue to surface implicating both past and present leaders, many party members express frustration over the lack of accountability for those involved. This atmosphere of mistrust undermines morale within the party and raises questions about its commitment to transparency and good governance.

The ANC in Government

Governance Record

Since coming to power in 1994, the ANC has overseen significant advancements in civil rights and social justice; however, it grapples with persistent socio-economic challenges that have left millions behind in poverty. The government’s response to pressing issues such as unemployment and inequality has often been perceived as inadequate.

The COVID-19 pandemic presented both challenges and opportunities for governance under the ANC. While there were commendable efforts in vaccine rollouts and economic relief measures aimed at mitigating the impact of lockdowns on vulnerable communities, criticisms regarding inefficiencies in service delivery have persisted. Many South Africans feel that basic services such as water supply, electricity, education, and healthcare remain inadequate despite years of governance under an organisation that promised transformation.

In particular, municipalities across South Africa have faced severe challenges related to service delivery failures. Frequent water shortages, electricity outages due to load shedding, and deteriorating infrastructure have sparked protests across various communities. These issues reflect not only administrative inefficiencies but also a lack of accountability at local government levels, often exacerbated by corruption.

Public Perception and Electoral Prospects

Public sentiment towards the ANC is at an all-time low as reflected in recent polling data. Citizens express frustration over corruption scandals that have tarnished the party’s image and eroded public trust. Service delivery protests have become commonplace as communities demand accountability from their leaders.

As South Africa approaches upcoming elections—the 2026 municipal elections—the ANC faces formidable challenges from opposition parties such as the Democratic Alliance (DA) on its right flank and the newly emerging Jacob Zuma’s Umkhonto Wesizwe Party (MKP) on its left. These parties have capitalised on public discontent by presenting themselves as viable alternatives to an increasingly beleaguered ruling party. The potential loss of support in key municipalities reminiscent of the recent humiliating losses in the May 2024 general elections, raises alarms about the ANC’s electoral prospects.

The DA has focused on issues related to governance failures while positioning itself as a champion for effective service delivery—an area where many citizens feel let down by the ANC. Meanwhile, MKP leader Jacob Zuma aims to dominate key municipalities in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) while capitalising on dissatisfaction with municipal management under ANC rule.

The Fallout from May 2024 Elections

The results of recent elections have sent shockwaves through the ANC, revealing deep-seated issues within the party and raising questions about its future trajectory heading into 2026 municipal elections. For instance, internal instability has led Luthuli House (the ANC headquarters) to threaten dissolving provincial executive committees in KZN and Gauteng due to poor performances during elections, particularly concerning their inability to maintain total control over these two key provinces.

In KZN, once seen as an ANC stronghold, the party’s failure to secure a commanding presence has led to challenges from rival parties such as MKP and IFP (Inkatha Freedom Party). Similarly, Gauteng includes Johannesburg and Pretoria, two major metropolitan areas where poor performance raises alarms about its relevance in urban politics.

Internal Divisions and Coalition Dynamics

The aftermath of these elections has exposed significant divisions within the ANC regarding its approach towards coalition governance especially given its recent participation in the co-called Government of National Unity (GNU). With no clear path towards majority rule following disappointing electoral performance across various provinces including KZN & GP the discussions surrounding potential alliances with other parties including controversial talks and forming coalitions with parties like DA have ignited fierce debates within its ranks.

Many members are deeply divided over aligning with the DA a party historically positioned against them; some factions see it as pragmatic while others view it as a betrayal against core values defining their identity! This internal conflict strains relationships with traditional alliance partners such as Cosatu (the Congress of South African Trade Unions) & SACP (South African Communist Party). These groups have expressed strong opposition against any collaboration fearing dilution that will undermine commitments towards social justice & economic equity long associated with their movements!

The Role of Civil Society and Opposition

Civil society organisations play a crucial role in holding the ANC accountable for its governance record while advocating for social justice across various sectors. Many NGOs actively engage in advocacy work aimed at promoting transparency and accountability within government structures while empowering communities to demand better services.

Organisations such as Corruption Watch have emerged as watchdogs against corruption within public institutions; they provide platforms for whistleblowers while raising awareness about systemic issues affecting governance processes. These efforts are vital not only for promoting accountability but also for fostering civic engagement among citizens who feel disenfranchised by traditional political structures.

Civil society actions have not been without criticism for their perceived alignment with opposition party (like the DA) politics whom they mostly share common funders with.

Opposition parties have also intensified their scrutiny of ANC policies through parliamentary debates while mobilising grassroots support during protests against service delivery failures or corruption scandals involving high-profile leaders within government ranks.

The DA’s focus on effective governance resonates strongly with voters frustrated by poor service delivery; their campaigns emphasise accountability while offering alternative solutions grounded in good governance principles rather than political patronage networks often associated with ruling parties like the ANC.

Meanwhile, MKP leader and former State President Jacob Zuma continues leveraging populist rhetoric around popular issues like land reform, a strategy designed both to galvanise support among disenfranchised communities seeking redress while challenging established norms regarding property ownership rights historically favouring white South Africans post-apartheid era.

Conclusion

As we approach January 8 celebrations marking 113 years since its founding the African National Congress finds itself at a crossroads defined by internal strife coupled with external pressures challenging its legitimacy as South Africa’s ruling party moving forward into uncertain times ahead marked by socio-economic challenges compounded further still amidst political rivalries intensifying daily across our nation’s landscape today!

The need for introspection is paramount; if this historic organisation hopes not only reconnecting meaningfully back again towards those foundational values underpinning liberation ideals but also regaining public trust lost over recent years, it must address pressing issues head-on without delay!

Moving forward requires a commitment towards transparency & accountability alongside genuine engagement across all demographics especially youth who represent South Africa’s future! By reaffirming dedication towards social justice & equitable development, the ANC can begin restoring faith amongst supporters whilst charting course towards sustainable governance benefiting all citizens alike!

Recommendations for Future Directions

To navigate these turbulent waters successfully while ensuring long-term viability moving forward, several recommendations can be made:

Reinforce Party Unity: The ANC must prioritise internal cohesion by fostering dialogue among factions while ensuring loyalty based on competence rather than political allegiance alone!

Engage Youth: Establish targeted initiatives aimed specifically at engaging young South Africans meaningfully through mentorship programmes or platforms allowing youth voices amplified within party structures themselves!

Commitment To Transparency: Implement stringent measures ensuring accountability regarding corruption allegations whilst promoting transparency throughout decision-making processes undertaken across various levels within government structures!

Focus On Service Delivery: Prioritising improvements regarding basic services remains crucial restoring public confidence; this includes addressing infrastructure deficits particularly prevalent across urban areas facing dire circumstances currently!

Strengthen Civil Society Partnerships: Collaborating closely alongside civil society organisations enhances accountability mechanisms whilst empowering communities actively participating throughout governance processes themselves!

As South Africa moves forward into uncertain futures defined by socio-economic challenges coupled alongside political rivalries intensifying daily, it becomes imperative that this historic organisation reflects deeply upon its role both as a governing entity & custodian liberation ideals! Only through genuine reform can it hope reclaim legacy championing all South Africans equally!

(Dube is a Political Economist, Businessman, and Social Commentator on UkhoziFM and various newspapers. Read more of his articles here: www. ncodube.blog)