ANC unveils plan to claw back support

The ANC has launched an ambitious plan to rejuvenate its grassroots structures, aiming to transform dormant branches into “activist hubs” that directly engage communities ahead of the 2026 local elections.

- By Setumo Stone

Luthuli House issues marching orders to branches with eye on next local elections

Titled “Guide to Rebuilding Activist ANC Branches,” the 52-page internal document - obtained by Sunday World and dated March 21 - outlines a radical shift from bureaucratic party operations to hyper-local, data-driven community organising. The plan blends ideological renewal with pragmatic tactics to address voter disillusionment and declining electoral performance.

In terms of targeting voters, the document outlines an “election-ready activism” strategy that tasks branches to analyse 2024 election data, target low voter registration, and prepare for 2026 through door-to-door canvassing, “publicity tables” at taxi ranks, and partnerships with civic groups.

The plan also introduces unconventional methods to rebuild voter trust, including the 25-page “Community Profile” template mandating branches to collect data rivalling municipal audits - from the number of child-headed households to the performance of local clinics.