The African National Congress (ANC), today marks 114 years since its founding in 1912 — a milestone that arrives at a moment of reflection, renewal and political pressure for the once-dominant party.
Founded to unite South Africans against colonial oppression, the ANC went on to lead the struggle against apartheid and govern South Africa since the advent of democracy in 1994.
But as it celebrates more than a century of existence, the party does so under the weight of declining electoral support, internal divisions, governance failures and public frustration over unemployment, corruption and service delivery.
This year’s anniversary is being commemorated in Rustenburg, North West, where a week-long programme has included door-to-door campaigns, community engagements and a symbolic cake-cutting ceremony.
The celebrations will culminate in a rally at Moruleng Stadium on Saturday, where ANC president Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to outline the party’s political priorities and strategic direction for the year ahead.
ANC secretary-general, Fikile Mbalula, has framed the January 8 anniversary as more than a ceremonial birthday, insisting it must serve as a turning point.
He said the focus this year is firmly on renewal, rebuilding trust with South Africans and addressing the country’s deepening socio-economic crisis.
“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.”
The message of renewal comes as the ANC faces 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 national and provincial levels.
Speaking on Tuesday in Limpopo at a memorial event for struggle stalwart Peter Mokaba, Mbalula warned ANC members against internal power struggles and careerism, saying leadership positions were a responsibility, not an entitlement.
“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, the celebrations are inseparable from hard questions about its future, whether it can reform or reconnect with voters.
Politics
