South Africa’s African National Congress (ANC), the historic party that led the country to freedom under Nelson Mandela, is confronting a critical moment in its journey. Plagued by corruption scandals, governance challenges, and ongoing racial inequality, the party has pledged to implement deep reforms to regain public trust.
Once dominant, the ANC lost its parliamentary majority for the first time since 1994, prompting the formation of a coalition government last year. This political setback has sparked intense reflection within the party.
At a strategy conference in Johannesburg on Thursday, the ANC acknowledged its shortcomings, citing corruption, factionalism, poor service delivery, and slow progress in poverty reduction as key areas of concern. “The apartheid-colonial political economy remains largely intact,” the party admitted, highlighting the continued disadvantages faced by Black South Africans compared with the small white minority.
“We understand our struggle to be at a fork in the road, and thus, we can either renew or perish,” the ANC declared, announcing plans to set measurable performance targets across critical issues affecting South Africans.
With municipal elections approaching in 2026, the ANC views these contests as a crucial gauge of its ability to reconnect with voters, particularly younger citizens disillusioned by a lack of tangible progress and entrenched cronyism. While many still revere the ANC for ending white minority rule, there is a growing demand for accountability and effective governance.
The Democratic Alliance, South Africa’s second-largest party, continues to advocate free-market policies and has called for the removal of the ANC’s racial redress initiatives, which have faced criticism both domestically and internationally.
President Cyril Ramaphosa, addressing the conference, emphasized the importance of restoring public confidence. “This will be an important test of the extent to which we have managed to renew the support and confidence of our people,” he said. He also noted that the party is making progress in fostering a culture of integrity, pointing to stronger compliance with its “step aside” rule, which requires members accused of wrongdoing to temporarily relinquish their positions.
At its core, this moment represents more than just political maneuvering—it reflects a party striving to honor the legacy of those who fought for freedom while addressing the pressing needs of a modern South Africa. The journey ahead is challenging, but for millions who still hold the ANC close to their hearts, the hope of a renewed, accountable leadership remains alive.
