The upcoming Gauteng provincial congress of the ANC has been marred by allegations of manipulation and violence, with some members calling for the event to be halted. The accusations stem from claims that the provincial leadership, including convenor Amukelani Mashele and NWC member Ntombi Magwaza, are manipulating processes to benefit their preferred candidate, Samukelisiwe Madonsela, for the position of provincial deputy secretary.
According to sources, Mashele’s support for Madonsela is part of a larger strategy to advance his own campaign for the position of deputy secretary at the ANC Johannesburg regional conference next year. The situation has escalated to violence, with reports of disruptions and clashes at branch meetings, including an incident in Meadowlands, Soweto, where a member was allegedly held hostage.
Furthermore, allegations have surfaced that Mashele, Madonsela, and Magwaza have been involved in launching parallel branches and creating conflicting structures within the organization. This has raised concerns about the integrity of the congress and the renewal process within the youth league.
While the most likely slate to emerge from the provincial conference includes Ntsako Kevin Mogobe as chairperson, Kamogelo Gasietsiwe as deputy chairperson, Mpume Sangweni as secretary, Madonsela as deputy secretary, and Onwabile Lubhelwana as treasurer, there is ongoing debate and discontent over Madonsela’s candidacy, particularly within the Johannesburg region.
The manipulation of processes is seen as an attempt to use the youth league’s voting rights at the ANC provincial conference in 2025 to influence the outcome. This has led to concerns about the legitimacy of the conference and calls for intervention from the youth league national leadership and the ANC.
In response to the allegations, Mashele has denied running parallel structures or tampering with the process in favor of any candidate. He maintains that the congress will proceed as scheduled, despite calls for its postponement. Youth league president Collen Malatji has assured that disputes will be addressed before the conference convenes to avoid legal challenges to the outcome.
Overall, the situation highlights the challenges and tensions within the ANC as it navigates the process of leadership renewal and internal democracy. The allegations of manipulation and violence underscore the need for transparency, accountability, and unity within the organization to ensure a fair and credible electoral process. The African National Congress Youth League (ANCYL) in Gauteng is facing challenges as they aim to establish all their structures by the end of February next year. Provincial coordinator Amu Madonsela expressed determination to succeed despite facing obstacles.
Madonsela highlighted that the violence within the youth league was instigated by older individuals who are trying to maintain control and influence over the organization. He mentioned that these individuals are resorting to disruptive tactics, such as funding interdicts and inciting instability during conferences, in an attempt to prevent the youth league from contesting leadership positions in the future.
Furthermore, Madonsela debunked allegations against Ntombi Magwaza, stating that she does not possess the authority to establish any structures within the organization. Magwaza also denied the accusations, emphasizing her deployment in the Eastern Cape and lack of involvement in Gauteng affairs.
Addressing the accusations, Madonsela questioned the validity of the claims and called for honesty among members. He reiterated that baseless allegations only serve to undermine the unity and progress of the ANCYL.
In response to inquiries about her potential candidacy for provincial deputy secretary, Madonsela clarified that she would contest if nominated. She emphasized the democratic process within the organization, stating that delegates and members will ultimately choose the candidate for the vacant position.
The ANCYL in Gauteng remains committed to overcoming internal challenges and establishing a strong foundation for future growth and development. Despite facing resistance and disruptions, the leadership is determined to uphold discipline and ensure the successful establishment of all structures by the set deadline. With a focus on unity and integrity, the youth league aims to navigate through obstacles and emerge stronger in the pursuit of their goals.
