The ANC has acknowledged that criminal networks have penetrated its ranks, deepening governance failures and eroding public trust.
ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula said the party had been infiltrated by criminal elements, including organised cartels, which have damaged the organisation.
His remarks follow explosive testimony before the Madlanga commission, which is probing corruption and political interference in the country’s crime-fighting entities.
Earlier this week, SAPS head of crime intelligence Lt-Gen Dumisani Khumalo detailed how alleged underworld figure Katlego “Cat” Matlala paid businessman Brown Mogotsi to influence suspended police minister Senzo Mchunu over multimillion-rand tenders and to pay for ANC party events.
According to a message on December 25 2024, Mogotsi told Matlala that a deposit for accommodation and flight packages (for the ANC’s January 8 conference) for about eight people had to be paid.
Mbalula’s remarks echo similar remarks by President Cyril Ramaphosa in September, in which he told ANC councillors during the party’s roll call that syndicates had infiltrated local government and were negatively affecting service delivery.
In August 2020 Ramaphosa also admitted the prevalence of corruption within the party’s ranks, saying it was “accused number one” regarding the vice.
Lifestyle audits
Mbalula told reporters at a media briefing on Thursday that the party was stepping up efforts to restore integrity, including lifestyle audits for officials.
“When it comes to lifestyle audits, we have committed as the ANC and taken a decision that we must undertake [it],” he said. “But lifestyle audits must be done by credible institutions.”
Reports of stealing money and “illegal missions” had to be investigated, he said.
“Because we know money has … exchanged hands, and characters such as these who claim ANC membership do not understand what it means to be a member of the ANC and have done deeds that are beyond imagination.”
Mchunu, who is expected to appear before the Madlanga commission, will also be summoned to appear before the ANC’s integrity commission. The structure acts as the party’s internal watchdog and is led by anti-apartheid activist Frank Chikane.
“[Mchunu] and whoever else is implicated will appear before the integrity commission. The integrity commission does not announce its work, but I can assure you that he will appear before the integrity commission.”
The upcoming weekend’s special meeting of the ANC national executive committee is expected to discuss the implications of the Madlanga commission for the party and the 2026 local government elections.
“Councillors have been instructed to report monthly on the six pillars of the local government action plan. Baseline reports from chief whips are now under review, and by November the ANC will release a local government barometer, measuring progress against manifesto commitments,” Mbalula said.
“In the coming days, the ANC will embark on unannounced visits across the country to see first-hand the work being done to ensure service delivery in our communities.”
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