ANC postpones national executive committee meeting to address GNU fallout

 

Addressing a media briefing at Luthuli House on Wednesday, 16 July, ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula confirmed that the party has postponed its upcoming National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting. The delay is intended to allow broader political preparations on issues such as the Government of National Unity (GNU) and deteriorating alliance relations, notably with the South African Communist Party (SACP).

Mbalula reaffirmed the ANC’s strong support for President Cyril Ramaphosa’s anti-corruption agenda, including the launch of a judicial commission to probe serious allegations involving the South African Police Service and senior officials, including Police Minister Senzo Mchunu.

He cited incomplete preparatory reports—particularly those related to the GNU, alliance dynamics, and internal integrity issues—as reasons for the postponement. The meeting is now expected to run for four to five days once it is rescheduled.

Background & Context

• The NEC plays a key role in steering party policy and resolving leadership disputes. This postponement follows previous delays and criticism over transparency in the party’s internal processes.

• Ramaphosa is facing mounting pressure after KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi accused senior officials of obstructing investigations into politically linked killings and corruption. In response, the president has suspended Mchunu and appointed an independent investigative commission.

• The NEC postponement also reflects the party’s effort to address relationships with coalition partners, especially as tensions escalate in the fragile unity government following the ANC’s loss of its parliamentary majority in May 2024.