STATEMENT OF THE ANC NATIONAL OFFICIALS

The National Officials of the African National Congress have met on the 16th January 2012, and amongst other things discussed, was the issue of the Treasurer General of the ANC on the comments he made during the centenary celebrations in Limpopo. This came up as a result of stories that were carried by the media pertaining to the issue of disciplinary action and as well as the issue placing some departments in Limpopo under administration by national government (see City Press report)..

As the Officials we agreed on the need to uphold the responsibility of investing in the unity of this organization.  We further agreed that this will be achieved with the leadership of the ANC not sending different messages to the public.  This, we view as not suppression of views but a leadership responsibility of communicating consistent messages at all times.

On the issue of the disciplinary case, we have agreed that it is correct for leadership to stay clear off the process as the Officials will be expected to implement the outcome of the process.  If any of the National Officials comment on a matter that is still pending it may be interpreted as trying to influence the outcome.  It is therefore not correct for any of the Officials to comment on the content and outcome of any case.

The meeting also reflected on the comments made on the issue of placing some departments under national administration in the Limpopo, Free State and Gauteng Provinces.  The Officials re-affirmed the position of the ANC as the strategic centre of power, and that it deploys people and strategies to ensure the improved administration in government.   Our role as officials may be to ask for reports and not condemn a correct decision that seeks to improve public administration.

The decision taken by the National government of placing these departments under administration is an intervention that is meant to tighten government administration and this decision is supported by the findings of the Auditor General.  As the ANC we are responsible to reinforce good governance and accountable administration.

As the officials we need to stick to policies of the organization.  Loyalty to decision that have been taken by the ANC based on organizational or governance prescripts will minimize the multiplicity of messages.

Statement issued by Gwede Mantashe, ANC Secretary General, January 17 2012

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