ANC says no issues with GNU parties speaking badly about it as campaigning for upcoming polls gears up

The African National Congress (ANC) said it has no issues with parties in the Government of National Unity (GNU) speaking badly about it, as political campaigning for the upcoming local government elections gets into gear.

This weekend saw a number of political activities around Johannesburg.

The Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) held a welcoming ceremony for 300 people it said are former uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party members, while the Democratic Alliance (DA) announced Helen Zille as its mayoral candidate for Johannesburg.

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IFP national spokesperson Mkhuleko Hlengwa said the installation of the presidential task team in the Johannesburg Municipality was a tacit admission by President Cyril Ramaphosa that the ANC-led coalition is failing.

Zille also took jabs at the ANC, saying it has failed the people of Johannesburg.

ANC secretary general Fikile Mbalula said the criticism from within the GNU was always expected, as parties still retain their independence.

“We don’t expect political parties who are our opponents to speak good about the ANC. Our story is the story of the people. How the people respond to the ANC and service delivery is what is important to us. We have said to the people elect us and we will serve you better.”

Mbalula said the ANC will begin its campaign in earnest in 2026, as it’s still focusing on strengthening its local branches.