PAPAMA MABOTSHWA | ANC must reflect, reaffirm its foundational principles

The ANC commemorated its 112th anniversary last month, a momentous occasion not only for celebration but also for deep reflection.

From its origins as a symbol of resistance against racial discrimination to its role in dismantling apartheid and ushering in democracy, the ANC has played a pivotal role in SA’s history.

However, its journey has been marred by a stark transformation from a liberation movement to a political entity plagued by corruption and a glaring lack of accountability.

Ahead of this year’s elections, the ANC must reaffirm its foundational principles, or else it risks losing connection with its constituency. In 1912, the ANC emerged as a response to racial injustice, demanding equal treatment before the law.

Over the years, its focus shifted from addressing racial injustices to a power struggle that compromised the very principles it once stood for. The failure to effectively transition from a liberation movement to a responsible governing body has become painfully evident through pervasive corruption and a reluctance to embrace accountability.

The dark era of Jacob Zuma’s presidency exposed the ANC’s underbelly, as corruption allegations and mismanagement of public funds reached unprecedented levels.

Despite mounting evidence, the ANC failed to hold its own accountable, undermining the democratic principles and justice it fought for during the Struggle. The erosion of public trust was further exacerbated by the shameless misuse of emergency funds during the Covid-19 pandemic, intended to ease the hardships faced by vulnerable citizens.

A shocking revelation on January 7, saw the secretary-general of the ANC, Fikile Mbalula, openly admit to deceiving the public in defence of then president Zuma about a swimming pool in Zuma’s mansion being a fire pool.

This raises concerns about the extent to which the ANC may have deceived the public on other issues, eroding trust in the party’s integrity. The ANC’s harmful impact extends beyond its own ranks, influencing the judiciary and impeding the fight against corruption.

The slow progress in implementing recommendations from the state capture commission report sends a troubling message – that the ANC prioritises its interests over justice and the rule of law.

The recent Phala Phala saga further reinforces the perception that the ANC undermines the judiciary, hindering efforts to fight corruption. The ANC corruption has real and detrimental effects on people’s lives.

The misappropriation of public funds worsens social inequality, delaying upward mobility and constraining opportunities for the most marginalised members of society.

As SA stands at a critical juncture in 2024, the ANC’s integrity hangs in the balance. Greed, corruption and a reluctance to embrace accountability pose significant obstacles to progress.

In this pivotal year, South Africans must scrutinise the ANC’s track record and question whether a party marred by deception and lacking transparency can lead the nation towards social justice, economic freedom and a better future.

The future of SA hinges on breaking free from the shackles of corruption and embracing a new era of responsible governance. The time for change is now, and the power to shape the nation’s destiny lies in the hands of its people.

■ Mabotshwa is a student at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology and a member of Equal Education.