The African National Congress (ANC) has come under criticism for what analysts describe as a lenient approach to tackling widespread corruption and governance issues within South Africa’s municipalities. 

This follows the party’s announcement that it will deploy senior leaders to address pressing local government challenges amid ongoing concerns about service delivery and municipal accountability.

The ANC’s National Executive Committee (NEC) convened over the weekend in Germiston, Ekurhuleni, where discussions centered, among other issues, on the upcoming local government elections scheduled for next year. 

During a media briefing on Monday, the NEC revealed plans to hold a special session within the next two weeks focused explicitly on addressing issues plaguing local governments. 

This move follows the party’s April Election Strategy Workshop and marks the beginning of election preparations.

However, critics argue that the ANC’s response appears reactive rather than proactive. 

Geopolitical analyst Joe Mhlanga voiced strong disapproval, stating, “This sends a negative message to South African communities. It suggests that the ANC only pays attention to issues when seeking votes.” 

He stated that many communities have been waiting for basic services for decades, yet little tangible progress has been made.

“Since 1994, residents have been promised clean water, proper roads, and basic infrastructure, but are still waiting. The same officials accused of corruption remain in power, and accountability is lacking.”

He pointed out that municipalities accused of misconduct continue to operate without consequences, fuelling public frustration.

“People protest weekly, demanding essentials like water, roads, and functioning healthcare facilities. Yet, the ANC seems to be acknowledging these challenges only now, which should have been addressed long ago,” he said.

Mhlanga also criticised the apparent lack of concrete action, citing the significant amounts of money stolen from municipalities over the years. 

“Billions meant for critical development have been siphoned off, but there’s little accountability. This systemic corruption undermines efforts to develop the economy and improve living conditions,” he argued.

He warned that the ongoing failure to tackle corruption could impact the ANC’s support in the upcoming elections.

“Voters are increasingly getting frustrated. They see no real effort to hold officials accountable, and many are ready to vote for opposition parties instead,” he said. 

“Residents want basic services, water, roads, clinics, hospitals, and they’re not getting them.”

Adding to the concerns, Mhlanga questioned the ANC’s broader priorities, suggesting that the government’s focus should extend beyond internal politics. 

“While the country faces economic challenges, the leadership seems preoccupied with court cases and internal disputes. They should be seeking investment and strengthening trade relations, but instead, they’re just waiting for legal outcomes,” he noted.

Meanwhile, the NEC also discussed the South African Communist Party’s (SACP) decision to contest the upcoming elections independently of the ANC. 

The party reaffirmed its respect for the SACP’s right to contest.

“We recognize that the SACP is an independent political organization with the right to contest elections as it sees fit. We have no wish to interfere with their decision. However, we disagree with their choice,” read the NEC statement.

thabo.makwakwa@inl.co.za

IOL Politics

Source link