ANC’s Controversial Alfred Nzo Conference Finally Sits After Multiple Postponements

After months of delays, internal disputes, and factional battles, the African National Congress (ANC) in the Alfred Nzo Region is finally holding its much-anticipated 5th Regional Conference in Ntabankulu — the region’s first-ever conference of this scale. The milestone event comes after the ANC regional leadership postponed the conference at least twice due to unresolved appeals and procedural disputes.

The ANC Regional Task Team (RTT) had warned that attempts were made to derail the conference through an “abnormal number” of appeals and factional tactics aimed at discrediting subcommittees and sowing division. However, the party confirmed last week that many of these disputes were resolved, allowing the conference to proceed.

Mabuyane calls for principled leadership

Delivering the keynote address at the MPCC Multi-Purpose Hall, Eastern Cape Premier and ANC Provincial Chairperson Oscar Mabuyane issued a stern call for unity and discipline among delegates. “Our mandate cannot be based on narrow, fractional loyalties,” he declared. “It must stem from the trust we’ve received from the branches of the ANC and the communities who look to us for leadership.”

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Mabuyane warned against self-serving political games and factionalism:

“Yekani iinkomfa zezinye iindawo, yekani inkomfa ye province, yekani nkomfa ka national. This must be the conference where we focus and elect leadership that will take Alfred Nzo Region to another level.”

He stressed that a strong Alfred Nzo Region was essential for political influence and respect at provincial and national levels:

“Solidify your region so that you can have a voice provincially, so that you can be respected nationally.”

Leadership race: two factions, uncertain outcome

The conference, which began on Thursday, 24 July 2025, is set to conclude with the announcement of election results on Saturday, 26 July. Two main contenders are vying for the regional chairperson position:

• Comrade Vukile Mhlembana, current RTT Convener
• Comrade Tsileng Sobuthongo, RTT Deputy Convener

The contest between the two factions has heightened tensions, but party leaders remain hopeful that the outcome will usher in stability and renewed trust.

Ngqondi: “We tick every box for legitimacy”

ANC Alfred Nzo Communications Head Gift Ngqondi reaffirmed that the postponements had allowed time to resolve internal disputes and finalize outstanding appeals.

“The provincial structure was working to address the appeals and ensure a legitimate conference,” said Ngqondi.

He confirmed that the Provincial Dispute Resolution Committee (PDRC) had also received appeals from outside the Alfred Nzo Region — another indication of the wider political dynamics at play.

Ngqondi noted that the Alfred Nzo region had become a priority for the Eastern Cape ANC to avoid the mistakes that led to disbanded structures elsewhere:

“We take time to ensure every box is ticked and all regulations are met.”

A moment of political reckoning

Mabuyane closed his address with a powerful invocation of the words of struggle stalwart Moses Kotane:

“At this hour of destiny, your country and people need you. The future of South Africa is in your hands.”

He left delegates with a clear directive:

“The challenges facing Alfred Nzo need leaders who will shape and uplift the poorest region in the Eastern Cape. Unite, comrades, for the people of this region to respect the ANC again.”