African National Congress (ANC) Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula has announced the suspension of all party conferences until members complete a compulsory political education foundation course. The decision aims to strengthen ideological clarity, discipline, and leadership integrity within the ruling party.
Mbalula made the announcement during a media briefing at Luthuli House, where he emphasized the ANC’s commitment to rebuilding internal structures and reinforcing political consciousness among its members. The move responds to growing concerns over factionalism, ill-discipline, and a weakening of the party’s ideological foundations.
“The ANC is not just an organization; it is a movement with a historic mission. We cannot allow our structures to be hijacked by individuals who lack ideological depth and political awareness,” Mbalula stated. He clarified that completing the political education course would be mandatory for participation in any ANC conferences, including branch, regional, and provincial meetings.
The decision follows criticism of internal party conflicts, with past conferences disrupted by allegations of vote-buying, factional disputes, and misconduct. Mbalula argued that political education would help restore discipline and unity within the ANC.
In recent years, the ANC’s internal democracy has faced challenges due to intense leadership battles, often overshadowing broader political goals. Recent provincial and regional conferences have been marked by accusations of manipulation and even violence, raising questions about the party’s stability.
Political analysts have viewed Mbalula’s announcement as an effort to professionalize the ANC’s internal processes. However, some critics warn that the move could delay leadership changes in provinces where factional tensions are already high.
The ANC’s OR Tambo Political School is expected to oversee the rollout of the foundation course, which will cover the party’s history, governance principles, constitutional democracy, and ethical leadership.
Mbalula suggested that the course might later be expanded to include ANC public representatives to ensure alignment with the party’s ideological values. “We cannot allow people to rise into leadership without understanding the ANC’s core values and principles,” he added.
With the ANC preparing for its National General Council (NGC) next year, the suspension of conferences could reshape internal dynamics. It remains unclear whether the decision will face resistance from factions accustomed to controlling party structures.
While some see the move as a necessary step to restore ideological discipline, others suspect it could be used to delay leadership transitions. Regardless, Mbalula has signaled that the ANC’s future will depend on members who are politically educated and ideologically grounded.