The ANC in the Free State has declared it cannot afford to continue losing members due to factionalism, a sentiment voiced strongly during a two-day Lekgotla in the President Hotel in Bloemfontein.

The Lekgotla, which began on Sunday (11/8), aimed to address the party’s priorities, analyse recent the May election results, and explore internal and external factors impacting the organisation.

Attended by Provincial Executive Committee (PEC) members, former leaders, alliance partners, youth league representatives, and government deployees, the Lekgotla served as a platform for deep introspection and strategic planning.

Also present at the Free State ANC lekgotla was Premier Maqueen Letsoha-Mathae, Photo: Facebook

In his closing remarks, the Provincial Chairperson Mxolisi Dukwana expressed serious concern over the factionalism that has led to the erosion of party membership and a significant drop in votes during recent elections.

Dukwana highlighted the detrimental effects of internal conflicts, urging members to reflect on their roles and avoid actions that undermine the party’s unity.

The Free State ANC Deputy chairperson, Koketso Makume also addressed ANC members who were present at provincial ANC Lekgotla.

“We cannot run and improve the ANC by destroying other comrades,” Dukwana stressed. “The ANC won’t while people are destroying it from within. We need every member of the ANC, and we must focus on rebuilding the organisation rather than tearing it apart.”

Echoing the sentiments of Pres. Cyril Ramaphosa, Dukwana emphasised the need for greater focus, discipline, and effective execution of decisions. He borrowed from Ramaphosa’s closing remarks at the National Executive Committee Lekgotla, noting that the challenging conditions facing the ANC demand more action and less talk.

“We have a history of resolutions that have not translated into tangible progress,” Dukwana said. “We need to act decisively, with courage, and ensure that our decisions lead to real change.”

He also reflected on the ANC’s performance in the recent general election, where the party failed to secure a majority at the national level but managed to retain a 51% majority in the Free State.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi mc