LIVE: 'Every councillor must be a leader of substance’ - ANC NEC sets standards for 2026 elections
ANC President Cyril Ramaphosa will deliver closing remarks delegates at the closing session of the ANC’s special National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting at the Birchwood Hotel in Ekurhuleni on Monday.
Image: X/@MyANC
African National Congress (ANC) President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to address the media at the party’s special National Executive Committee (NEC), on key issues including the party’s preparations for the 2026 local government elections.
The meeting took place from Saturday, October 4, to Monday, October 6, at the Birchwood Hotel in Ekurhuleni.
It focused on key issues, including reflections on party resolutions, the economic action plan, organisational priorities, and preparations for the 2026 local government elections.
“Over the past two days, the NEC has engaged in robust and frank discussions on key areas of national importance: the economy, governance, service delivery, and strengthening the movement’s organisational capability,” the ANC said in a statement.
The NEC also deliberated on the party’s candidate selection list for the upcoming local government elections.
The ANC aims to reclaim its lost majority in several municipalities by fielding candidates of high integrity and proven ability.
ANC secretary general Fikile Mbalula briefed the media on Saturday, emphasising the importance of leadership quality in the party’s selection process.
“Our process is clear and uncompromising,” Mbalula said.
“Candidates must emerge from community consultations, undergo rigorous vetting, and be assessed not by factional loyalties, but by their integrity, their record of service, and their ability to deliver.”
Delegates attend the ANC’s special NEC meeting at the Birchwood Hotel from October 4-6. 2025. Discussions focused on governance, economic priorities, service delivery, and candidate selection.
Image: X/ANC
He said the party is determined to ensure that every ANC councillor is a “leader of substance,” rooted in their community, capable of driving development, and committed to clean, accountable local governance.
“This is not just about compiling lists,” Mbalula said.
“It is about the quality of leadership we put before our people.”
The ANC, which has faced criticism over poor governance, service delivery failures, and corruption allegations involving its members, is seeking to restore public trust ahead of the 2026 local government elections.
Ramaphosa, in previous engagements, urged ANC ward councillors to learn from the Democratic Alliance (DA), which he said has performed better in certain areas of governance.
However, his comments drew criticism - but was seen by some analysts as a long-overdue admission.
The ANC said Ramaphosa will deliver the closing remarks as the NEC meeting concludes on Monday.
simon.majadibodu@iol.co.za
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