The African National Congress (ANC) has acknowledged the weakness of its KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) branch, admitting that it is currently struggling to withstand challenges from rival political parties. ANC spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu-Motsiri revealed that the party in KZN is not strong enough to regain its majority, highlighting the urgency for reform within the province’s leadership.
The admission comes as the ANC’s National Working Committee (NWC) convenes with KZN leadership in Boksburg to discuss how to strengthen the region. This follows the party’s historic loss in the May 29 national and provincial elections, where the ANC’s national support dropped to 40%, with KZN receiving just 17%. The province notably lost its majority to the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party, led by former President Jacob Zuma.
Bhengu-Motsiri emphasized that the ANC is not only focusing on KZN but is also assessing other provinces where the party faces similar challenges. “We are looking at all provinces to identify where we remain strong but also where there are teething challenges,” she stated. KZN and Gauteng, however, are receiving immediate attention due to their importance in the party’s future.
The spokesperson noted that rebuilding KZN is crucial for the ANC’s success in future elections. “You need KZN. You need to focus on rebuilding and strengthening the province,” Bhengu-Motsiri said, stressing the province’s pivotal role in national elections. The ANC is determined to ensure that it can compete effectively in the region once more.
Bhengu-Motsiri also addressed the recent public criticism from KZN Secretary Bheki Mtolo, who accused ANC leaders, including President Cyril Ramaphosa and Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula, of failing to take responsibility for the party’s losses. Despite this, the ANC remains focused on renewing its structures, with decisions on the next steps expected to be announced after the National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting.
