ANC's renewal programme is real and taking shape, says Makhura

ANC's renewal programme is not rhetoric but real and taking shape across the board. These are the words of ANC head of political education, David Makhura, who has declared the party under its official renewal programme.

He said various developments in recent months have culminated in the party's new trajectory, which has seen more than 125, 000 ANC members being put through the party's leadership programme, made up of five modules.

Makhura, who was joined by by ANC National Executive Committee (NEC) members Andries Nel and Febe Potgieter-Gqubule, during Thursday's press briefing said the united front in the party's ongoing transformation efforts is responsible for the positive environment the party finds itself in.

Makhura highlighted that the ANC's renewal process is beginning to take effect, albeit in its early phases. He acknowledged that this initiative marks a new chapter in the party's history, particularly since the dawn of democracy in South Africa in 1994.

"There is evidence that things are turning and that we are in the early stages of renewal," he said. This renewed focus is complemented by the party's step-aside rule, aimed at promoting accountability. For the first time, several implicated officials have voluntarily stepped aside, allowing for due processes to unfold without obstruction.

"We can see that the environment is changing in the organisation," Makhura asserted. This bold initiative reflects the ANC's commitment to integrity and transparency, which have been longstanding challenges within the party.

The media briefing also provided updates on the outcomes of critical commissions such as the National Democratic Revolution (NDR) and the Strategy and Tactics, which lay the groundwork for economic and social transformation. These pillars are integral to the ANC's programme of action for the next phase, aiming to reflect the needs and aspirations of all South Africans.

According to Makhura, the party's educational initiatives are proving fruitful. The OR Tambo School of Renewal has facilitated participation in political engagement on an unprecedented scale.

"This is a turnaround, and renewal is not rhetoric but being enforced," he remarked. The last time the ANC witnessed such extensive political education was during the unbanning of the party, underscoring the gravity of this transformative endeavour.