By Thebe Mabanga
President Cyril Ramaphosa has told the ANC that the forthcoming sixth local government elections will be a “litmus test” for the party, warning that it must have the courage to recall representatives who fail to perform.
Ramaphosa delivered the closing remarks at the ANC NEC Lekgotla held in Boksburg over the weekend.
He told delegates that the ANC would be judged on its actions rather than its promises, saying voters would assess the party on whether water flows from their taps, electricity supply is reliable and the economy works for them by creating jobs.
The president said the party must be prepared to recall deployees who do not perform.
“We cannot and must refuse to accept poor performance. We cannot accept people who abuse the trust of our people and waste public resources,” Ramaphosa said.
He reiterated the ANC’s six priorities as outlined during the party’s January 8 celebrations, with fixing local government identified as a central focus.
This includes prioritising water, roads and energy — particularly load reduction — as well as job creation through the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP).
Ramaphosa also announced that the party would establish a War Room in the office of Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula to oversee implementation.
The remaining priorities include economic transformation and inclusive growth, tackling corruption and crime, facilitating a National Dialogue, renewing the organisation, and building a better Africa and world.
The ANC has described the year ahead as one of decisive action, with an emphasis on execution and implementation.
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