Overview
- The four-day National General Council opened on 8 December at Birchwood in Boksburg as the ANC’s mid-term review, with plans to assess policy implementation and the Government of National Unity’s performance ahead of the 2026 local polls.
- Deputy President Paul Mashatile and Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula reiterated that leadership changes are not on the agenda and said President Cyril Ramaphosa will serve out his term, with succession reserved for 2027.
- ANC structures will investigate the origin of reports alleging a plot to unseat Ramaphosa, which officials have denounced as misleading.
- Outside the venue, ANC employees supported by Nehawu and the Youth League picketed over delayed salaries, unpaid provident fund contributions and suspended medical aid despite Mbalula’s claim that most staff had been paid.
- In his opening address, Ramaphosa pressed for stricter discipline, organisational renewal and urgent action on poverty and inequality, cautioning members to reconnect with communities and avoid ostentatious displays of wealth.