The African National Congress (ANC) will not change its key economic policies, including Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) and land reform, even if the United States imposes sanctions on some of its leaders, said Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula.
Speaking at a media briefing in Luthuli House, Mbalula dismissed concerns over possible US sanctions, which have been speculated due to allegations of corruption and governance issues. He insisted the ANC would not bow to foreign pressure.
“We are not a puppet state,” Mbalula declared. “Even if some leaders face sanctions, the ANC will never drop BEE or the Expropriation of Land Without Compensation Act. These policies are vital for justice and economic transformation.”
The Expropriation Act, passed earlier this year, allows the government to seize land without payment in certain cases to address historical injustices. Critics, including some Western governments, argue it risks harming property rights and investor confidence. However, the ANC maintains it is necessary to correct past inequalities.
BEE, designed to redress apartheid-era economic imbalances, remains a key ANC policy. While some say it has mainly benefited a politically connected few, the party insists it is crucial for inclusive growth and breaking white-dominated economic structures.
Mbalula warned that abandoning these policies would worsen inequality. “Sanctions or not, our transformation agenda is non-negotiable,” he said.
Analysts say Mbalula’s stance signals the ANC’s growing resistance to perceived Western interference, especially on sovereignty and economic reforms. This position may further strain South Africa’s relations with the US and other Western allies.
But Mbalula was clear: the ANC will push forward with its policies, regardless of international pressure.