The African National Congress (ANC) in the Buffalo City Metro (BCM) has postponed its highly anticipated regional conference due to unresolved internal disputes, leading to last-minute cancellations and public criticism. The conference, initially scheduled for this weekend, was delayed after the party’s national leadership withheld the necessary accreditation certificate, citing procedural issues.
ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula has denied any interference in the BCM’s internal affairs, emphasizing that the delay was a result of the BCM’s failure to meet organizational requirements. He clarified that the national executive committee had not imposed any decisions on the region but had merely acted to ensure compliance with party protocols.
The postponement has sparked frustration among local leaders and members, who view the move as a setback in the party’s efforts to strengthen its presence in the Eastern Cape ahead of the 2026 local government elections. Some members have expressed concerns that unresolved leadership disputes could undermine the ANC’s credibility and effectiveness in the region.
The ANC’s national leadership has called for immediate action to resolve the internal conflicts and to reschedule the conference promptly. They have urged BCM leaders to prioritize unity and adherence to party procedures to avoid further delays and potential damage to the party’s reputation.
As the ANC navigates these internal challenges, the party’s ability to maintain cohesion and discipline will be critical in determining its success in upcoming elections and its continued influence in South African politics.