THE ANC plans to compel its aspirant public office-bearers, from the president down to councillors, to declare their private business interests.

In its Organisational Renewal discussion document to be debated at the party's policy conference in June, the ANC proposes that all members wishing to stand for public office should sign a declaration of businesses and other interests.

Although the document does not spell out how the declarations will be managed, it is understood a register of interests will be administered by Luthuli House, the party's head quarters and that no public official, including the president, would be exempted if the proposal is adopted as policy.

A previous attempt announced by the party's secretary-general Gwede Mantashe to keep track of the business interests of members does not seem to have gained traction.

Although the document does not give much details, the ANC has for some time been concerned about members' interests in business and how that is influencing them.

"All those wishing to stand for election or nominated by the structures should be vetted by the integrity commission and screened by the electoral commission to ensure compliance with organisational requirements including integrity and discipline," the document proposes.

The ANC has a number of public representatives - councillors, MPs and ministers, among others - who are involved in a wide range of businesses.

Some of the leaders participate in the party's national executive committee's discussions where the country's investment and economic policies are debated.

The document further says the ANC has to create a platform for candidates to be able to explain themselves and answer questions from the structures on their experience, leadership and capacity.

"This will ensure that candidates don't subvert internal democracy by creating their own platforms," the document proposes.

The ANC also wants a permanent electoral commission whose term of office will correspond with the relevant executive committee.

This means the commission will be elected during the ANC national conference at the same time as leaders.

It wants the commission to be composed of veterans and other members not available for election, whose conduct is beyond reproach.

The commission's responsibilities will include screening candidates and ensuring that only those who meet the criteria and requirements of leadership are nominated for top positions.

The document says the electoral commission will work together with the integrity commission in dealing with allegations levelled against candidates on matters of integrity and ethics.