Can the ANC's Elephant Recover? Internal Conflicts Threaten Party's Future

The Struggling Elephant: ANC's Internal Crisis Eats Away at its Foundation

By Mpho Dube-Editor in Chief

The African National Congress, once the mighty elephant of South Africa's liberation movement, now lies wounded and dying.

The party's internal conflicts and controversies have taken a deadly toll, leaving it a shadow of its former self. As Secretary General Fikile Mbalula convenes crucial meetings with Limpopo leaders, the question on everyone's mind is: can the ANC be resuscitated, or is it too late?

Mbalula's meetings with the ANC Provincial Executive Committee in Limpopo aim to address the party's deep-seated conflicts and allegations of irregularities surrounding the Peter Mokaba Region Conference.

The conference was marred by reports of widespread irregularities and disputes, with some delegates alleging that they were denied their rightful places at the conference while fake delegates were allowed to participate. The situation has sparked outrage among ANC members and supporters, who are calling for swift action to address the issue.

The party's crisis in Limpopo is multifaceted, with several key issues at play. Allegations of vote-rigging and irregularities in the Peter Mokaba, Vhembe, and Norman Mashabane regions have added fuel to the fire, with many questioning the legitimacy of the conference.

The contest for leadership between Polokwane Mayor John Mpe and ANC Women's League Provincial Chairperson Mamedupi Teffo has further complicated matters, with some accusing Mbalula of bias and favoritism.

Discontented ANC members and allies are demanding that the party set aside decisions and resolutions from the 10th Peter Mokaba Regional Conference, dissolve the elected REC, and appoint a Conference Preparatory Committee to reconvene a properly constituted conference.

They argue that this is the only way to restore the party's credibility and ensure that its leadership is legitimate and accountable to its members.

Mbalula's leadership is under intense scrutiny, with many doubting his ability to resolve the conflict and restore the party's credibility. Critics argue that Mbalula is prioritizing his own interests over the needs of the party, exacerbating the crisis and undermining the party's credibility.

They point to the delayed release of a report on the conference irregularities, which was supposed to be made public two weeks ago but has now been pending for almost two months. This delay has only added to the sense of uncertainty and mistrust within the party.

The ANC's ability to address internal conflicts and controversies will be crucial in maintaining its image and credibility ahead of the local elections next year. With the party's reputation hanging precariously in the balance, Mbalula's leadership will be put to the test as he navigates the complex web of party politics in Limpopo.

The stakes are high, and the outcome of the meetings will determine the future of the party in the province.

As Stan Mathabatha's decision to step aside as Provincial Chairperson has sparked heated debate, the ANC Waterberg Region has confirmed its support for Limpopo Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba as the preferred candidate for ANC Provincial Chairperson.

The region's endorsement was made during its 10th Regional Conference, where delegates unanimously backed Ramathuba's bid for the top spot. This development has added another layer of complexity to the party's crisis, with some questioning whether Ramathuba's candidacy will help to stabilize the party or further exacerbate the divisions.

The meeting between Mbalula and the ANC Limpopo PEC is a make-or-break moment for the party. If Mbalula fails to resolve the issues, it would be a

significant blow to the party's credibility and image.

However, if he succeeds, it would be a major step towards healing the party's internal wounds and ensuring its continued relevance and effectiveness. The eyes of the nation are on Mbalula, and it remains to be seen whether he will rise to the challenge and lead the party towards a brighter future.

In the midst of this crisis, the ANC's legacy as a liberation movement and its commitment to the values of democracy and accountability are being put to the test.

The party's history and tradition of fighting for freedom and equality are being overshadowed by the petty squabbles and power struggles that are tearing it apart.

As the party struggles to find its footing, it is clear that the road ahead will be long and difficult. But with strong leadership and a renewed commitment to its core values, the ANC can still emerge from this crisis stronger and more united than ever.

Will Mbalula's efforts be enough to revive the party, or will it succumb to its internal decay? Only time will tell. One thing is certain, however: the ANC's future hangs precariously in the balance, and the decisions made in the coming days will determine its fate for years to come.