ANC National Executive Committee (NEC) member Bathabile Dlamini has issued a stern warning to the party's uMgungundlovu District councillor candidates, stating that they will be removed as councillors if they repeat the mistakes made by their predecessors. This warning was given during the ANC's KwaZulu-Natal provincial prayer in Pietermaritzburg's Caluza township. Dlamini emphasized that the party's decline is attributed to the bad behavior of some of its councillors.
Dlamini highlighted that when ANC councillors fail to attend to service delivery problems, the people blame the ANC, not the councillor. To address this, the ANC has introduced a mechanism allowing community members to report misconduct by councillors, enabling immediate action to be taken. This move aims to restore public trust in the party, which lost its majority nationally and in KwaZulu-Natal during the 2024 general elections.
The ANC Women's League (ANCWL) former president reminded the councillor candidates that the ANC is a revolutionary movement prioritizing the people. She emphasized that any form of abuse or dislike towards people has no place in the ANC. Dlamini suggested that ANC councillors should sign an acceptance and resignation letter at the start of their term, allowing for swift removal in cases of misconduct.
Voters' disillusionment with the ANC led to the party losing its majority. To win back public trust, Dlamini stressed the importance of humility and approachability. She encouraged community members to report grievances against the party, stating that this is not the time for arrogance but rather a time for openness.
The event, attended by ANC provincial and regional leaders, as well as community members, featured prayers by ANC-aligned "progressive pastors" for the party's victory in the upcoming November 4 local government elections. ANC provincial task team (PTT) member Sifiso Sonjica stated that prayers were not only for an ANC victory but also for peaceful elections in KwaZulu-Natal.
Sonjica emphasized the ANC's opposition to political violence, advocating for peaceful, free, and fair elections. He acknowledged past mistakes made by the ANC and expressed hope for forgiveness. The prayers aimed to promote unity and seek divine guidance for the party's future.
The warning by Dlamini and the prayers for peaceful elections highlight the ANC's efforts to regain public trust and ensure a successful outcome in the upcoming local government elections. The party's focus on service delivery and community engagement will be crucial in determining its success.
Key points
- ANC NEC member Bathabile Dlamini warns councillor candidates of removal for misconduct.
- The party aims to restore public trust after losing its majority in the 2024 general elections.
- ANC leaders emphasize the importance of peaceful elections in KwaZulu-Natal.
