President Cyril Ramaphosa has issued a stern warning to ANC councillors, urging them to cut all ties with criminal syndicates and reject the culture of self-enrichment, corruption, and patronage that continues to plague the party at all levels of government.
Speaking at the ANC’s roll call for councillors at the FNB Stadium on Monday, Ramaphosa delivered one of his most forceful addresses yet, as he called for a clean break from corrupt dealings and interference in municipal administration.
Ramaphosa said the ANC would soon establish dedicated teams to pursue and expose criminal networks operating within the state.
“We are going to set up teams that will go after those syndicates. We know them, and we are going to nab them… Free yourself now before it is too late,” he said.
His remarks come at a time when the ANC is under growing public pressure over rampant corruption allegations that have weakened state institutions, hollowed out service delivery, and eroded public trust.
From top-tier ministers to grassroots councillors, ANC members are increasingly being accused of using the public office for personal gain.
Most recently, Police Minister Senzo Mchunu was implicated in a corruption scandal following explosive allegations made by former KZN police commissioner Lt-Gen Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, who accused Mchunu of political interference and corruption in the police ministry.
Ramaphosa did not mention Mchunu by name, but his address drew a clear line in the sand:
“There is no space for self-enrichment or patronage. We must not protect individuals who are implicated in corrupt activity,” he said, encouraging the law enforcement agencies to act against people within our own ranks who break the law.
He stressed the urgent need to dismantle networks that manipulate appointments and municipal contracts, warning against councillors hiring allies or unqualified individuals simply to “do their bidding.”
“Let us allow those who can do the work to do the work. I know it is tempting for us to hold on. Now, this must end,” he said.
Ramaphosa called on ANC structures to ensure accountability and professionalism at the municipal level, saying communities deserve competent officials and efficient service delivery.
“Citizens are here. They want those who do not serve them well to be moved out. We must not obstruct that.”
He further urged councillors to lead with humility, transparency, and a commitment to public service, warning against arrogance and complacency.
“There is no place for laziness or arrogance. Let us serve our people with the respect they expect.
As the ANC approaches a critical local government election cycle, Ramaphosa called on the members to reclaim moral authority within the party.
The ANC continues to grapple with entrenched corruption across its ranks.
kamogelo.moichela@iol.co.za
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