ANC Members Call for Thabo Mbeki’s Return as Party President After Devastating Election Setback

Calls are reportedly growing within parts of the African National Congress (ANC) for former South African President Thabo Mbeki to return and lead the party as it struggles with declining electoral support and growing concerns about its political future.

The renewed calls come after the ANC’s disappointing performance in the 2026 Local Government Elections, which has intensified internal discussions about the party’s leadership, direction and ability to regain the confidence of South African voters.

Some ANC members reportedly believe that bringing Mbeki back into a leadership position could help revive the organisation and restore its political standing following successive electoral setbacks.

The party also suffered a significant decline in support during the 2024 National and Provincial Elections, when it lost its parliamentary majority for the first time since coming to power in 1994.

Those advocating for Mbeki’s return reportedly believe his experience and previous leadership could help restore discipline, credibility and unity within the organisation.

Mbeki served as South Africa’s second democratic president from 1999 until 2008 and previously occupied the position of ANC president between 1997 and 2007.

His supporters believe that his return could provide the party with the leadership and political direction needed to rebuild its structures and reconnect with voters who have become increasingly dissatisfied with the organisation.

The latest developments could also increase pressure on the current ANC leadership under President Cyril Ramaphosa, particularly as questions continue to emerge about the party’s electoral strategy and future leadership arrangements.

However, it remains unclear how widespread the calls for Mbeki’s return are or whether they have received support from influential figures within the ANC’s national leadership.

The ANC has not yet officially responded to the reported demands.

For now, the calls highlight the growing debate within the governing party about how to reverse its declining support and restore its former political dominance.

Source : https://x.com/GlobalSouthNew/status/2119701992461226435/photo/1?a=qfbe_ATKt3FHUcbuID0&s=19

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