Radical ANC deployment proposal rejected by KZN rank and file

Party members express concerns over external leadership appointments

- THAMI MAGUBANE

CAPE Town's iconic Tweede Nuwe Jaar Parade, showcasing the annual celebration of the Kaapse Klopse tradition, took place yesterday. Organised by the Kaapse Klopse Karnival Association (KKKA), the event showcased thousands of performers in spectacular costumes marching from Chiappini Street to the DHL Stadium.

(I LAN LANDSBERG Independent Newspapers)

KWAZULU-NATAL ANC members have warned the party against a proposal to look beyond the organisation for people to deploy into government roles, saying the move could trigger tensions at branch level.

Some members demanded that, if pushed through, every leader of the party-from local government to national parliament-should be subjected to this rule.

The members, speaking on condition of anonymity as they are not authorised to speak to the media, were reacting to reports that the party is considering individuals from outside its membership for deployment to leadership positions. It was reported that, among the proposed changes, mayors of metros would no longer need to be drawn from regional leadership structures.

However, other party members said they believe the proposal could reignite excellence within the organisation. They argue the move is not controversial and is nothing new, as the party has done this previously.