ANC President Cyril Ramaphosa has urged unity as the party’s National General Council (NGC) meets in Ekurhuleni. The gathering, running from 8–11 December, comes amid rising internal divisions and tensions with alliance partners after the ANC’s weak 2024 election performance.

What Happened?

Ramaphosa addressed delegates at the ANC’s 5th NGC, describing the meeting as a moment for renewal and organisational reflection. He said internal disputes and alliance strains—particularly the SACP’s push to contest elections independently—threaten the party’s cohesion if not resolved.

The NGC, the ANC’s second-highest decision-making structure, is focusing on ethical leadership, rebuilding organisational discipline, and preparing for the 2026 municipal polls.

Official Response

Ramaphosa acknowledged that the ANC lost significant voter trust in 2024. He emphasized the need to return to grassroots mobilization and reconnect with communities, arguing that internal unity is essential for electoral recovery.

“The alliance has faced challenges before. We will overcome our differences,” he told delegates.

Political analysts note that the council exposes long-standing structural weaknesses, with the ANC under pressure to rebuild internal stability and credibility ahead of the next election cycle.

Community Impact

The outcome of the NGC is expected to shape the party’s approach to service delivery, coalition strategies, and governance stability in provinces and municipalities. For voters, the decisions taken may influence how the ANC positions itself on local issues, leading to the 2026 polls.

Residents and civic groups have expressed hopes that the party’s internal renewal will translate into improved municipal performance and accountability.