ANC struggles: what’s happening and what must change

You’ve probably noticed it: the ANC no longer wins votes by default. Between service failures, high unemployment, and repeated corruption headlines, many voters now ask whether the party still delivers. That skepticism has translated into lost councils, tougher coalition politics, and a clearer message from citizens — performance matters more than loyalty.

Why the ANC is under pressure

Factional fights inside the party have eaten up time and attention. When leaders focus energy on internal contests, they rarely fix local problems like broken water systems, potholes, or failing clinics. Those everyday failures show up at the ballot box faster than any policy speech.

Corruption and state capture remain central. High-profile scandals have cost the ANC credibility. Even when the party acts, investigations take years and many feel accountability is weak. That creates a simple perception: rules apply to everyone else, not to powerful insiders.

Service delivery and electricity problems give opposition parties a clear target. Rolling power outages and municipal failures affect small businesses, students, and families every day. When households can’t rely on basic services, trust breaks down quickly.

Economic pain is real. Youth unemployment stays high, and many young people don’t see a path to a decent job. That fuels voter shifts, protests, and new political movements that promise change rather than repeat old promises.

What the ANC can do right now

Start enforcing discipline and results at the local level. That means fixing the worst-run municipalities first and making mayors and councilors accountable with clear targets and short timelines. Voters notice when a pothole is filled or a clinic reopens.

Make anti-corruption action visible and fast. It’s not enough to open inquiries; people need to see outcomes. Quick, transparent disciplinary steps against officials who abuse power will help restore some trust.

Offer straightforward economic plans for youth jobs and small businesses. Small, practical programs that help young entrepreneurs get started create visible change faster than long-term pension reforms. Show how a policy helps a local hairdresser, a tech trainee, or a small farmer.

Talk to voters, not at them. The ANC needs direct, local engagement where people can air complaints and expect rapid follow-up. That rebuilds relationships faster than national speeches.

Finally, master coalition politics. Losing majorities means working with others. If the party can build stable, results-focused coalitions, it keeps influence and shows it can still govern responsibly.

If the ANC wants to stop the slide, it has to pick clear, achievable actions and deliver them visibly. Voters will forgive mistakes if they see steady improvement and real accountability. Otherwise, more voters will look for alternatives that promise basic reliability.