The African National Congress (ANC) in the Free State is facing dire financial challenges as the 2024 national and provincial elections loom, casting a shadow over its campaign efforts in the region. With several regions reporting a lack of funds, the party finds itself struggling to organize crucial campaign activities, raising concerns about its prospects in the upcoming polls.
Sources within the party, speaking on condition of anonymity, revealed that both the Fezile Dabi and Thabo Mofutsanyane regions are grappling with severe budgetary constraints, hampering their ability to conduct effective campaigns. The absence of funds has left these regions unable to procure election materials such as posters, essential for visibility and outreach efforts.
In a damning indictment of internal mismanagement, allegations surfaced regarding the misuse of resources by regional officials. The Fezile Dabi regional chairperson, Victoria De Beers, stands accused of prioritizing personal interests over the party's needs. It's alleged that De Beers and her associates have been diverting funds for personal gain, leaving the region stranded without the necessary resources for campaign activities.
An insider disclosed, "The regional chairperson is failing to organize and mobilize funds for the region, but she instead is able to organize things for her cabal. Out of the membership we have in the region, she only chooses to organize transport for the few people within her circle."
Moreover, concerns were raised about the lack of intervention from senior party officials despite being aware of the financial crisis gripping the region. Christopher Melato, a member of the Regional Executive Committee (REC), lamented the absence of efforts to address internal divisions and mobilize support effectively. The failure to unite the party could have dire consequences in what is anticipated to be a fiercely contested election.
Adding to the challenges, the province itself is reported to be in a precarious financial situation, compounding the difficulties faced by the regional ANC branches. Despite acknowledging the financial constraints, there appears to be a lack of clarity on the path forward, with regions left to fend for themselves in mobilizing resources for the campaign.
The ANC in the Free State has previously come under scrutiny for its handling of logistical matters, as evidenced by the failure to transport members to the party's anniversary celebrations. This incident underscores the ongoing struggles faced by the party in managing its resources effectively, particularly in the lead-up to critical electoral events.
As the election date draws nearer, the ANC finds itself grappling with internal discord, financial woes, and logistical challenges, raising doubts about its ability to mount a robust campaign in the Free State. With key figures like former premier Ace Magashule also entering the electoral fray, the party faces an uphill battle to maintain its stronghold in the province.
Despite repeated attempts to seek clarification, ANC provincial spokesperson Jabu Mbalula and regional chairperson Victoria De Beers remained unavailable for comment at the time of publication. As the ANC navigates these turbulent waters, the outcome of the 2024 elections in the Free State remains uncertain, with the party's future hanging in the balance amidst mounting challenges.
Comments