The African National Congress (ANC), which has played a key role in South Africa’s democracy, is now facing a serious financial and political crisis. A recent article by Mawande AmaShabalala, “ANC financial woes plunge NEC meeting into chaos,” revealed unpaid bills and cash flow problems that disrupted an important National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting. 

These issues have been around for some time, but now they threaten the ANC’s ability to function and to govern effectively. Words alone are not enough; the ANC needs real financial support to survive and serve South Africa. The party has many talented and influential members, and now is the time for those with resources to help. We need a clear and transparent plan to restore the ANC’s operations, ensure its future, and rebuild public trust. As Nelson Mandela once said, the ANC’s legacy depends on its actions today. 

To address this crisis, the ANC should: 

• Set up a transparent, independently audited fund to help manage financial ups and downs and support long-term stability. 
• Create a digital crowdfunding platform to bring in support from the public, with clear reporting on how funds are used. 
• Ask professional members to offer their skills at reduced rates or for free, to help strengthen the party’s internal systems.
• Start a professional ANC business forum focused on ethical funding and policy advocacy to help rebuild the party’s reputation. 

Real reform and accountability must come first. Many South Africans are hesitant to give financial support without clear and honest governance. 

The ANC should: 

• Release regular audited financial statements to the public.
• Clearly report on donor funds and spending. 
• Put in place professional financial management.
• Take a strong stand against misuse of funds and patronage. 

The ANC is at a turning point. Those who care about its future need to act now. The Sunday World article shows just how urgent the situation is: the time for complacency is over. 

The ANC must choose real reform, supported by its influential members and true transparency, to stay relevant. Otherwise, it risks becoming just a memory, unable to serve South Africa. Now is the time for action and a renewed commitment to financial integrity, to protect both the ANC and the freedom it helped achieve.

* Nyaniso Qwesha (MBA) is a South African political and economic commentator with a background in trade finance, governance, and sustainability.

** The views expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of IOL or Independent Media.

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