The African National Congress in the Eastern Cape has paused its 10th provincial elective conference following a high court interdict. Three party members successfully sought the court order over verification irregularities and guideline violations. The ANC now awaits judicial advice on rescheduling.
The KuGompo (East London) High Court interdicted the ANC Eastern Cape's 10th provincial elective conference, originally set for 26-29 March. Three aggrieved members approached the court, citing verification irregularities and the party's failure to follow conference guidelines and constitutional provisions.
Applicant Lwazi Rotya welcomed the pause, stating, “We are happy and that its also a lesson to learn in terms of that we must guard against what we say publicly specifically from the office of the SG... so I think today we take the win.”
The ANC's alleged defiance of an interim order prompted a contempt application against Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula, NEC deployee convener Mmamoloko Kubayi, Eastern Cape chairperson Oscar Mabuyane, and other NEC deployees. Parties reached a consent order, moving the matter from the urgent roll to a normal opposed motion.
ANC Eastern Cape secretary Lulama Ngcukaitobi affirmed compliance efforts: “We are trying to comply with every aspect and guideline of the constitution and the policy of the ANC... That’s why the ANC accepts the outcomes of the court and is in compliance with those outcomes.”
The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development criticised Kubayi's involvement as frivolous and unprofessional. Mabuyane noted legal challenges in Eastern Cape and Limpopo conferences, adding, “We are a serious historic stronghold of the ANC.”
The party will follow court advice on a new date.
