ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula has clarified the party’s stance on South Africa’s coalition governments, stating that the African National Congress speaks only for itself and not on behalf of its political partners.
Mbalula emphasized that the ANC remains committed to its own policies and does not involve itself in the affairs of other parties. His comments address public concerns about coalition arrangements, particularly those involving politicians with criminal records.
“The ANC did not go into a coalition with convicted criminals; it is South Africans that said they want other political parties,” Mbalula stated, distinguishing the party’s choices from the outcomes determined by voters.
[WATCH] The ANC cannot speak for other political parties. The ANC did not go into a coalition with convicted criminals, it is South Africans that said they want other political parties. #ANCNEC pic.twitter.com/uENfiry9bN
— ANC SECRETARY GENERAL | Fikile Mbalula (@MbalulaFikile) August 1, 2025
The statement highlights the reality of South Africa’s electoral system, where coalition governments are formed when no single party wins a majority. Mbalula’s remarks aim to clarify the ANC’s position, asserting its autonomy and ensuring accountability remains with each individual party within a coalition.
This clarification is seen as an effort to maintain the ANC’s distinct identity and principles while navigating the complexities of multiparty politics.