The African National Congress (ANC) has called on its ancestors to guide and bless the party as it prepares for the upcoming local government elections on November 4. First deputy secretary-general Nomvula Mokonyane made the appeal at the grave of Dr. Pixley ka Isaka Seme, one of the party's founders, on Thursday. Mokonyane asked the gods of the ANC to forgive the party's members and be with them as they campaign door-to-door.
Mokonyane's remarks reflect the ANC's efforts to reconnect with its rich history and heritage. She urged party members to embody the values and spirit of Pixley ka Isaka Seme as they interact with voters. The ANC has faced criticism for corruption and a decline in state institutions since taking power in 1994. Mokonyane emphasized the need for self-introspection and a renewed commitment to serving the people, rather than personal interests.
The ANC's struggles are evident in its performance in recent elections. For the first time since 1994, the party failed to secure an outright majority in the 2024 general elections. The upcoming local government elections are seen as a crucial test of the party's popularity. President Cyril Ramaphosa has acknowledged the party's challenges, describing the ANC as "corruption accused number one" in South Africa in 2020.
Mokonyane's call for renewal and forgiveness is part of a broader effort to revitalize the party. She emphasized the importance of party members being proud to be part of the ANC and serving the people of South Africa. The ANC is looking to its forebears for guidance and courage to represent and serve the people.
ANC regional chair Loyiso Masuku expressed confidence in the party's chances in the upcoming elections. Masuku said the party has been working hard to strengthen its branches and is in a better position than before. The ANC aims to secure a decisive victory and avoid coalitions, which it believes can hinder its ability to implement its program of action.
The ANC's focus on renewal and revitalization is also reflected in its efforts to strengthen its branches. Masuku said the party has been working to move away from the outcomes of the regional conference and focus on the work ahead. The ANC is seeking to regain the trust of South Africans and demonstrate its commitment to serving the people.
As the ANC prepares for the local government elections, the party is seeking to draw inspiration from its rich history and heritage. The party's appeal to its ancestors reflects its efforts to reconnect with its values and principles. The outcome of the elections will be closely watched, as it will provide insight into the party's popularity and its ability to regain the trust of South Africans.
Key points
- ANC's Nomvula Mokonyane appeals to party founders for help in upcoming elections
- ANC seeks to reconnect with its history and heritage amid struggles
- Party aims to secure decisive victory in local government elections
