WATCH: ANC turns 114 amid electoral challenges and public discontent
The ANC celebrates 114 years of existence.
Image: IOL
The African National Congress (ANC) marks 114 years since its founding in 1912, arriving at a moment of reflection and political pressure for the party that once dominated South African politics.
As part of the celebrations, ANC president Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to deliver a speech on Saturday, January 10, at Moruleng Stadium in the North West, outlining the party’s political priorities and strategic direction for the year ahead.
The address will culminate in a week-long programme of community engagements, door-to-door campaigns, and a symbolic cake-cutting ceremony in Rustenburg.
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Founded to unite South Africans against colonial oppression, the ANC led the struggle against apartheid and has governed the country since the advent of democracy in 1994. But as it marks over a century of existence, the party faces declining electoral support, internal divisions, governance challenges, and public frustration over unemployment, corruption, and service delivery.
ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula said the January 8 anniversary should serve as a turning point rather than just a ceremonial birthday. “This is not just about celebrating 114 years,” Mbalula said.
“It is about renewal, working with South Africans, and creating jobs. It is about the marching orders that the president will give to ANC members,” Fikile said.
The message of renewal comes as the ANC confronts its most serious challenge since taking power, having lost its parliamentary majority for the first time in the 2024 general elections and now governing through coalition arrangements at both national and provincial levels.
Speaking earlier this week in Limpopo at a memorial for struggle stalwart Peter Mokaba, Mbalula urged party members to prioritise service over personal ambition.
“We did not join the struggle for positions,” he said. “If you are appointed as a mayor or premier, that is a privilege given by the ANC, not a birthright. You must serve the people.”
As the ANC turns 114, its celebrations are inseparable from broader questions about its future — whether it can reform, rebuild trust with voters, and reconnect with a public that has grown increasingly critical.
Analysts point to internal factionalism, policy inconsistencies, and slow service delivery as ongoing challenges that continue to erode public confidence. The party also faces pressure from a resurgent opposition, rising civic activism, and widespread frustration over socio-economic issues such as poverty, unemployment, and energy insecurity.
Observers note that unless the ANC can address perceptions of corruption, strengthen internal accountability, and deliver tangible improvements to citizens’ daily lives, it risks further electoral losses and continued difficulty in maintaining stable governance.
For members and supporters, the anniversary is therefore as much a moment for celebration as it is a reminder of the work ahead to restore credibility and reconnect with communities across the country.
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