Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Stephen Grootes
Published on 2024-02-25 20:58:33
The landscape of South African politics has shifted significantly since the ANC launched its election manifesto in 2019. With the upcoming elections posing a tough test for the party, much of the dynamics and challenges facing the ANC have evolved.
One of the defining dynamics in the party back in 2019 was the rift between President Cyril Ramaphosa and his predecessor Jacob Zuma. Now, that rift is even more pronounced, with Zuma leading a different party, uMkhonto Wesizwe. Despite the changes and challenges, the ANC’s manifesto for the 2024 elections reflects its ability to respond to the concerns of voters.
The manifesto includes promises to create 3.5 million public sector job opportunities, establish a national youth service with the SANDF, and prioritize food security. While job creation has been a consistent pledge from the ANC, youth unemployment continues to rise, raising questions about the feasibility of these promises. The focus on food security and measures to support income through social grants demonstrate the party’s awareness of pressing social issues.
The ANC’s manifesto also addresses recurrent problems in service delivery, with plans to strengthen support for struggling municipalities and intervene in providing clean water. The party’s approach to addressing load shedding and transitioning to renewable energy sources reflects a commitment to balancing different energy needs within the country.
Efforts to combat crime, improve policing, and overhaul the immigration system are also outlined in the manifesto. However, the effectiveness of these proposals will depend on the leadership within the police force and Home Affairs department. The issue of xenophobia, road infrastructure, and integrity within the party are also addressed in the manifesto, signaling a comprehensive approach to governance and social issues.
Despite promises of governing with discipline and integrity, concerns remain about the inclusion of individuals with questionable integrity in the ANC’s candidate lists. This discrepancy between promises and actions could impact the party’s credibility and electoral performance.
As the ANC prepares for the upcoming elections, its manifesto serves as a roadmap for addressing pressing social, economic, and governance challenges. However, the party must demonstrate its commitment to delivering on these promises and upholding its core values of service, discipline, and integrity to regain public trust and support. Only time will tell if the ANC can meet the expectations set forth in its manifesto and navigate the complex political landscape of modern South Africa.
Read the original article on Daily Maverick
