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The ANC in the Eastern Cape says it has made strong progress in its renewal programme after successfully hosting five of its eight regional conferences by 17 November 2025. The completed conferences include Alfred Nzo, OR Tambo, Joe Gqabi, Chris Hani and Nelson Mandela regions. Each conference elected new leadership and met the organisation’s constitutional requirements, including the 70% branch representation threshold.
What Happened
The ANC reported that all five conferences ran smoothly and remained peaceful throughout. Delegates deliberated on political, organisational and governance reports before electing new regional officials. Importantly, two women, Tsileng Sobuthongo (Alfred Nzo) and Babalwa Lobishe (Nelson Mandela Region), emerged as chairpersons, showing a notable step toward stronger gender representation.
An NEC deployee at the OR Tambo conference said, “Delegates engaged with discipline and unity. The quality of discussions showed a clear commitment to renewal.”
Official Response
ANC Eastern Cape leaders welcomed the smooth and orderly conduct of the conferences. They noted that there were no disputes, disruptions or court challenges. Preparations for the Dr WB Rubusana conference are now in the final stages. The party expects this upcoming conference to show the same stability seen in the other regions.
Provincial spokesperson Loyiso M. said, “The ANC in the Eastern Cape is solid and focused. These conferences reaffirm our unity and our determination to rebuild trust with communities.”
The party congratulated all newly elected leaders and encouraged them to prioritise poverty reduction, job creation and strengthening the social contract between the organisation and the people.
Community Impact
The ANC believes the conferences will help restore confidence in regional structures as they renew mandates and refine local priorities. Moreover, the party noted that the gatherings took place during the centenary year of Frantz Fanon, urging new leaders to draw inspiration from his call for transformative and people-centred change.
