Fikile Mbalula
1Min
South Africa
Dec 1, 2025
As the ANC prepares to convene for its essential National General Council, the focus rests firmly on reform, renewal, and fortifying its leadership amidst pressing socio-economic challenge.
The African National Congress (ANC) is gearing up for its 5th National General Council (NGC) scheduled for December 8-12, 2025, with an emphasis on organisational renewal and ethical leadership.
ANC Secretary General Fikile Mbalula addressed media on Monday, providing insights into the party’s readiness for this significant gathering of National Executive Committee (NEC) members, which plays a crucial role in evaluating the party's progress and strategic direction.
Taking place at the Birchwood Hotel and Conference Centre, the five-day event will serve as a platform for the ANC's top leadership to review key policies established during the last elective conference while aligning their strategies for the future.
With many regional structures preparing for their own conferences ahead of the NGC, the anticipation surrounding the event is palpable, especially as key regions like Johannesburg and Tshwane are on schedule to complete their conventions by the end of this week.
Just ahead of this year's NGC, the party is aiming to solidify its foundation. “All regional structures have been directed to conclude their conferences before the NGC,” Mbalula explained, as he underscored the importance of synchronising efforts across various party levels.
The ANC's initiatives are also influenced by recent reports from regional branches, which convened in Cape Town to discuss strategies to address electoral challenges, particularly following a reconfiguration of leadership in the Western Cape.
“Preparations for the NGC are at an advanced stage with all logistical arrangements aligned to the directive of the National Executive Committee. The ANC is fully ready to host the delegates, stakeholders, and observers,” Mbalula stated, highlighting improvements in coordination between the national and provincial structures that have facilitated smooth preparations for the NGC.
The main focus of the upcoming gathering will be the party's renewal programme, along with governance issues that are urgently needing attention. “The NGC will assess progress on organisational renewal, government performance, socio-economic reconstruction and the implementation of key resolutions from the 22nd national conference,” he elaborated. Specific attention will be given to enhancing governance, especially in local government and economic interventions, all while bolstering the ANC's presence in communities.
Further amplifying the messages aligning with the NGC, Mbalula expressed optimism following President Cyril Ramaphosa's recent address to the nation, wherein he reiterated the importance of stability and renewal.
“His message aligns with the spirit in which the ANC approaches the NGC. The President's address reinforced confidence in the country's direction and the ANC leadership role in ensuring a better life for all,” Mbalula said.
