ANC at war with itself: Insiders fear factional battles could cost party votes

The African National Congress (ANC) is embroiled in internal battles as the November 4 local government elections approach, raising fears that factional conflicts could undermine the party's performance at the polls. ANC insiders have warned that unresolved disputes could fracture the party, weaken campaigning efforts, and drive away disenchanted members at a critical time when unity is needed.

One insider stated, "These battles are costly, and this now shows that we have not learned anything from the previous elections." They added, "Factions have cost us before because the ANC has now turned into a party of positions and not for the people. We won’t survive if we go on like this."

Disputes over candidate selection have become a focal point of the factional conflict, with tensions between national, provincial, and regional structures on full display. A major sticking point is the legal challenge filed by ANC NEC member Andile Lungisa against secretary-general Fikile Mbalula over his removal from the party's candidate list for Nelson Mandela Bay.

Lungisa alleges that Mbalula personally and unlawfully ordered his dismissal. The dispute has added yet another explosive confrontation between senior ANC figures, raising concerns about the party's unity in the face of pressure to present a united front to voters.

Another controversy involves veteran anti-apartheid activist Frank Chikane, who was recommended as a mayoral candidate but was subsequently left off the final list submitted to electoral authorities. This omission has sparked confusion and tension within the organization, with questions raised about whether local and national structures are pulling in different directions.

A leaked internal report, attributed to Mbalula, blames Eastern Cape provincial secretary Lulama Ngcukayitobi for changing candidate lists shortly before the submission deadline without the required mandate. These allegations have intensified concerns about control over the nomination process and whether factional interests are overriding decisions made by ANC structures.

However, the candidate list disputes are not the only source of internal turmoil. The ANC has acknowledged significant problems with its candidate information, with an internal investigation revealing 252 incorrect identity numbers in candidate data. Over 350 councillor candidates were also removed during the final vetting process. This administrative chaos has fueled anxiety among branches and candidates who had hoped to contest under the ANC banner.

While the candidate lists themselves pose a threat, insiders fear that the real danger lies in the aftermath of the selection process. They warn that candidates and activists who feel excluded may withdraw their support, campaign against preferred candidates, or refuse to mobilize voters. "We can't afford these kinds of unnecessary wars and tensions because we have about a few weeks to prepare for the elections," one insider cautioned.

This concern echoes previous warnings that the ANC's greatest enemy may not come from outside its gates.