The African National Congress (ANC) is holding its fifth National General Council (NGC) this week. The event takes place from 8 to 11 December at the Birchwood Conference Centre in Boksburg, Gauteng.
The NGC is a mid-term meeting for the party. It allows members to review progress on policies. It also assesses the party’s overall performance. This happens between the five-yearly national elective conferences.
This gathering is the second-highest decision-making body in the ANC. It brings together delegates from branches across the country. Members of the party’s leadership structures will also attend. This includes the National Executive Committee, the leagues, and veterans.
The theme for the 2025 National General Council is focused on renewal. It aims to make the ANC a more effective organisation for its constituents.
SMread: Mkhwanazi denies blue light role at commission
Focus on policy, not positions
Despite speculation, the party has stated that leadership changes are not on the agenda. Deputy President Paul Mashatile confirmed this when he stressed that leadership matters are for the 2027 national conference and that President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to complete his term.
Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula also dismissed any talk of succession battles. He stated the council’s purpose is to prepare the ANC for elections. It is also meant to consolidate the party’s renewal process. The National General Council will focus on the state of the organisation and governance.
The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU), an alliance partner, has urged delegates to focus on issues affecting the working class. These include the high unemployment rate and slow economic growth.
COSATU acknowledged the government’s achievements since 1994. However, it also pointed to serious failures. It highlighted the need to address challenges in local government. The trade union federation also called for the state to be better capacitated. This is to help it fulfil its developmental and transformation goals.
Image: Fikile Mbalula, ANC secretary-general. Credit: Facebook / MyANC.
