Mabuyane confirms ANC EC will appeal interdict as conference registration begins

Eastern Cape Premier and African National Congress (ANC) Chairperson Oscar Mabuyane has confirmed that the party will appeal a recent court decision to interdict the provincial conference.

While the party intends to challenge the ruling, Mabuyane stated they will simultaneously implement the court order, which mandates the resolution of ongoing disputes regarding branch participation.

ALSO READ: Nothing will stop ANC's EC provincial conference, says Mbalula

Briefing the media in Gompo (formerly East London) on Thursday, Mabuyane emphasised that the conference preparations have not ground to a halt.

Registration is already underway, and the chairperson signalled that the leadership is determined to proceed within legal boundaries.

The conference is set to be a high-stakes showdown for the provincial leadership.

Mabuyane is seeking a third term as chairperson, where he will face a challenge from his former ally, provincial secretary Lulama Ngcukayitobi.

Addressing the legal hurdle, Mabuyane noted that the party is acting on professional advice to ensure all internal processes are exhausted.

"The Council advised the ANC that we cannot just take it like that as much as we respect the rule of law," Mabuyane said. "So, we are continuing within those legal parameters to ensure that we exhaust that particular process, hence the appeal that is already lodged. So now we've got an effective appeal that has been done."