ANC Gauteng chairperson Panyaza Lesufi has firmly asserted that the African National Congress (ANC) must reclaim its identity and independence, distancing itself from the influence of the Democratic Alliance (DA) and its federal chairperson, Helen Zille.
Speaking at the Gauteng ANC Youth League (ANCYL) provincial elective conference in Boksburg, Lesufi urged the party’s youth to take an active role in reshaping the ANC’s future under the Government of National Unity (GNU). This marks the first time in over a decade that the ANCYL is hosting such a conference in the province.
“The ANC does not belong to the DA or Helen Zille,” Lesufi declared. “We must reclaim our position and ensure the ANC leads this government and the country alone, without accompaniment from any other party. We need fresh ideas, thinking, and approaches to achieve a better life for all.”
Lesufi emphasized the importance of youth leadership in shaping the ANC’s path forward, calling on the “young lions” to take bold and innovative steps to strengthen the party’s unity and reclaim its dominance.
Zille and Lesufi have clashed publicly, with Zille accusing Lesufi of overstepping his role and acting independently of the national ANC leadership. The DA escalated the matter by appealing to ANC President Cyril Ramaphosa to intervene.
In response, the South African Communist Party (SACP) has come to Lesufi’s defense, warning the DA against targeting him. “They must never dare touch Lesufi,” the SACP stated, signaling solidarity with the Gauteng ANC leader.
Lesufi’s remarks reflect ongoing tensions within the GNU and highlight the ANC’s efforts to reaffirm its leadership role amidst coalition complexities and external criticisms.