ANC president Cyril Ramaphosa delivered an inspiring message during the annual ‘January 8’ statement in Cape Town, calling on party members deployed in the government of national unity to prioritize service delivery and transformation. He emphasized the need for ANC deployees to act confidently and swiftly in their roles, utilizing the tactical initiative gained through the formation of the ANC-led GNU for the strategic advancement of all South Africans.
Addressing supporters at Mandela Park Stadium in Khayelitsha, Ramaphosa acknowledged the challenges faced by the party in the wake of the May 2024 elections, where the ANC experienced a strategic setback due to the loss of majority. He outlined the reasons for the electoral decline, including economic crises, poor service delivery, governance issues, and organizational weaknesses within the ANC.
Ramaphosa stressed the importance of the party renewing itself to regain public confidence and address perceptions of corruption and neglect. He highlighted the government’s priorities for the year, which include resolving the water crisis, improving local government, and boosting the economy. The president emphasized the need for urgent action and determination in rebuilding the ANC’s capacity to fulfill its historical mission.
While commending the government’s efforts in addressing the energy crisis and load shedding, Ramaphosa also called for solutions to ongoing issues of load reduction and power outages in townships and rural areas. He underscored the interconnectedness of ANC renewal, governance improvement, and socio-economic transformation, urging a holistic approach to rebuilding the party’s presence in communities and enhancing service delivery.
In conclusion, Ramaphosa emphasized that the ANC faces an existential crisis and must choose between renewal or decline. He called for greater urgency in strengthening ANC branches as centers of development and engagement with citizens. The president’s message resonated with attendees, signaling a renewed commitment to rebuilding the ANC and advancing the welfare of all South Africans.
