By Johnathan Paoli
The African National Congress’ renewal must be more than a superficial change as it requires fundamental transformation of leadership and governance, ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula said on Tuesday.
“Renewal is not cosmetic; it is a radical overhaul of how we lead, organise and serve. It means uprooting the culture of complacency, factionalism and gatekeeping, and replacing it with a disciplined, accountable and [an] activist movement,” Mbalula told reporters in Johannesburg.
The launch of the party’s smart membership card was highlighted as a historic step towards restoring the ANC to its members, promoting integrity and empowerment within the ANC.
Furthermore, he reiterated political education would be a key pillar of this renewal, with the introduction of a foundational course for all party structures to create ideologically grounded leaders capable of driving transformation.
“We are training a new generation of cadres who are grounded, ideologically clear, and ready to lead transformation,” Mbalula said.
Addressing concerns about the ANC’s financial health, Mbalula admitted to challenges, including delayed salary payments, but assured that fundraising efforts were ongoing.
He rejected claims of bankruptcy, emphasising that the party complied with the Independent Electoral Commission’s financial disclosure requirements.
On governance negotiations within the Government of National Unity, Mbalula acknowledged ongoing discussions on devolution and operational strategies.
He reiterated that the ANC remained committed to constructive engagement while opposing any move that weakened the party’s transformative agenda.
Mbalula said that with major infrastructure initiatives, political restructuring and policy reforms on the horizon, the party aimed to strengthen its position ahead of its national general council on 8-12 December 2025.04.01
The party’s NEC met over the weekend.
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