Mbalula: ‘The Death of the ANC Is the Death of Our People’

ANC secretary-general defends the governing party, blaming individual misconduct rather than the organisation itself for many of its challenges.

African National Congress (ANC) Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula has declared that the decline of the ANC would have serious consequences for South Africa’s people, arguing that the party remains central to the country’s social and political future.

Mbalula made the remarks while addressing supporters ahead of the upcoming local government elections, where the ANC is seeking to rebuild support following electoral setbacks and growing public dissatisfaction over governance and service delivery.

Mbalula Defends the ANC

Speaking to supporters, Mbalula argued that the ANC should not be judged solely by the actions of individuals who may have engaged in misconduct while serving within its structures.

Instead, he maintained that the organisation itself continues to represent the aspirations and interests of millions of South Africans.

According to Mbalula, wrongdoing by individuals should not be confused with the broader values and mission of the ANC.

Blames Individuals for Party’s Problems

The ANC secretary-general suggested that many of the controversies and governance failures associated with the party stem from the conduct of specific members rather than the movement as a whole.

His comments form part of the ANC’s ongoing effort to rebuild trust among voters by emphasizing renewal, accountability and organisational reform.

The governing party has faced criticism in recent years over corruption scandals, service delivery failures and poor electoral performances in several municipalities.

Call for Community Unity

Mbalula also used the platform to encourage greater community solidarity and collective action.

He argued that communities should work together to address local challenges rather than becoming divided by political and social tensions.

The ANC has increasingly focused its messaging on grassroots engagement and local development as parties intensify campaigning ahead of the municipal elections.

Elections Loom Large

The comments come at a critical time for the ANC as it seeks to strengthen its position ahead of the 2026 local government elections.

Political analysts have noted that the elections will serve as an important test of public confidence in the party following a period of significant political and electoral change in South Africa.

Issues such as unemployment, infrastructure maintenance, service delivery and local governance are expected to dominate campaign debates across the country.

ANC Faces Pressure to Deliver

While Mbalula’s comments were intended to rally supporters, they are likely to generate debate among both supporters and critics of the governing party.

Opposition parties have frequently argued that the ANC itself must take responsibility for the country’s challenges after more than three decades in power.

The ANC, meanwhile, maintains that it remains best placed to address South Africa’s social and economic challenges while continuing its programme of renewal and reform.

As campaigning intensifies, voters will ultimately decide whether the party’s message resonates at the ballot box when local government elections take place next year.