By Our Reporter
RUSTENBURG (CONVERSEER) – Today the African National Congress (ANC), the oldest liberation movement on the African continent, celebrates 114 years since its founding on 8 January 1912 in Bloemfontein.
The anniversary comes at a pivotal moment for the party as it seeks to reconnect with South Africans and rebuild confidence ahead of the 2026 local government elections, following significant declines in electoral support in recent years.
Celebrations have been underway throughout the week in Rustenburg, North West Province, where ANC leaders have been engaging with communities, listening to residents’ concerns, and stepping up door-to-door outreach.
The highlight of the commemorations will be a major rally at Moruleng Stadium this weekend, where ANC President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to deliver the annual January 8 Statement.
Party leadership has described this year’s anniversary not merely as a birthday celebration but as an opportunity for renewal, unity and a renewed focus on job creation, service delivery and strengthening ties with ordinary South Africans.
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ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula emphasised that the anniversary is about renewal and fighting for freedom in today’s context, with a focus on collaborating with citizens to address pressing socio-economic challenges.
Founded more than a century ago to unite South Africans in the struggle against colonialism and apartheid, the ANC has governed South Africa since the advent of democracy in 1994.
However, the party now faces internal divisions, governance concerns and public dissatisfaction over unemployment, corruption and basic service delivery issues it must confront as it marks this historic milestone.
(MDN)
