Deputy President Paul Mashatile has called for the African National Congress (ANC) to focus on internal renewal and unity, cautioning against premature discussions about leadership succession. His remarks come at a time when the party is grappling with a significant decline in voter support and internal factionalism.
Mashatile emphasized the importance of ending factionalism within the ANC, stating that the party’s strength lies in its unity. He warned that internal divisions could hinder the ANC’s ability to deliver services and meet the needs of the people. Addressing the ANC manifesto review in the Free State, Mashatile highlighted the necessity of building unity to ensure effective governance.
In a broader context, Mashatile has previously described the ANC as facing an existential crisis, urging the party to act swiftly to arrest its decline. He pointed to the poor state of many ANC branches and structures, which are often preoccupied with internal conflicts and self-interest, rather than focusing on the needs of the communities they serve.
Despite being considered a potential successor to President Cyril Ramaphosa, Mashatile has cautioned against early discussions about leadership succession. He noted that the next ANC elective conference is still three years away and that the party should first focus on rebuilding its structures and engaging with communities. Mashatile’s stance aligns with recent directives from ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula, who has warned party members against publicly discussing leadership ambitions ahead of the 2027 conference.
Mashatile has also emphasized the need for the ANC to prioritize policy over personality. He believes that the party should be more concerned about its policies and their implementation than about who will be the next president. This perspective reflects a broader concern within the ANC about restoring its relevance and reconnecting with voters.
The ANC faces significant challenges as it prepares for the upcoming elections. The party’s declining support base and internal divisions have raised concerns about its ability to maintain its position as the ruling party. Mashatile has acknowledged these challenges but remains optimistic about the ANC’s future, expressing confidence that the party can regain the trust of the electorate through unity and effective governance.
In conclusion, Paul Mashatile’s call for ANC renewal underscores the urgency of addressing internal divisions and focusing on policy and service delivery. As the party navigates its leadership succession and electoral challenges, the emphasis on unity and renewal may determine its future trajectory.ANC’s Path Forward: Unity and Policy Focus
