Key Takeaways
- ANC Eastern Cape provincial chairperson Oscar Mabuyane is considering contesting for the position of deputy president of the ANC
- Mabuyane believes that senior leaders, including ministers, may not be the best fit for metro mayoral positions
- The ANC is re-strategising its campaign strategy for the 2026 elections in response to the DA’s decision to field high-profile candidates
- Mabuyane has expressed confidence in the capable women leaders in the Eastern Cape metros, saying they will succeed with the right support and systems
- The ANC is focused on building a united party and managing its transition effectively
Introduction to the ANC’s Leadership
The African National Congress (ANC) is currently navigating a critical period in its history, with various leaders vying for positions and the party seeking to reclaim its support base. In a recent interview with the Sunday Times, ANC Eastern Cape provincial chairperson Oscar Mabuyane shared his thoughts on the party’s leadership and its strategy for the upcoming 2026 elections. Mabuyane, who is being considered for the position of deputy president, was coy about his intentions, stating that he still needs to focus on his provincial conference next year, where he will be contesting for a third term.
The Debate on Metro Candidates
The ANC has been debating whether to field its senior leaders, including ministers and former ministers, as candidates for the 2026 elections. This debate has been sparked by the Democratic Alliance’s (DA) decision to announce party veteran and federal council chair Helen Zille as its candidate for a metro mayor position. Mabuyane, however, believes that seniority is not the best measure of a person’s capability to hold public office. He argued that ministers may not be the best fit for the "coal face of service delivery" and that the party should instead focus on identifying capable individuals who can effectively serve the people.
The Eastern Cape Metros
Mabuyane expressed confidence in the capable women leaders in the Eastern Cape metros, particularly in Buffalo City and Nelson Mandela Bay. He stated that these leaders have the potential to succeed as mayoral candidates in the next elections, provided they receive the necessary support and systems. Mabuyane’s comments suggest that the ANC is committed to promoting women’s leadership and empowering them to take on key roles within the party. By doing so, the party hopes to build a more diverse and representative leadership that can effectively serve the needs of its constituents.
The Importance of Unity and Transition
Mabuyane emphasized the need for the ANC to build a united party and manage its transition effectively. He stated that the party’s branches, rather than its regions, will play a critical role in determining the party’s leadership and direction. Mabuyane’s comments suggest that the ANC is committed to grassroots democracy and empowering its members to shape the party’s future. By focusing on building a united party and promoting capable leaders, the ANC hopes to reclaim its support base and remain a dominant force in South African politics.
Conclusion and Future Prospects
In conclusion, the ANC is at a critical juncture in its history, with various leaders vying for positions and the party seeking to reclaim its support base. Mabuyane’s comments suggest that the party is committed to promoting women’s leadership, building a united party, and empowering its members to shape its future. As the party prepares for the 2026 elections, it will be important for the ANC to stay focused on its core values and principles, while also adapting to the changing needs and aspirations of its constituents. By doing so, the ANC can remain a relevant and effective force in South African politics, and continue to play a leading role in shaping the country’s future.
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