ANC engages in coalition talks with various political parties

The African National Congress (ANC) has initiated discussions with several political parties to explore possibilities of forming a coalition government, according to party spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu-Motsiri.

The National Working Committee met on Tuesday to discuss reports from National Officials regarding talks with different political parties, including the Inkatha Freedom Party, Economic Freedom Fighters, Democratic Alliance, National Freedom Party, and Patriotic Alliance.

The ANC is also engaging with its alliance partners, the South African Communist Party and the South African National Civics Organisation, as part of the consultation process.

Bhengu-Motsiri emphasised that the goal is to create a government that prioritises national unity and stability, promotes development, and respects the Constitutional democracy.

Following its Electoral Rules, the ANC held extended sessions of its Provincial Executive Committees (PEC) to nominate Premier candidates in provinces where the party has a majority or is likely to lead a coalition government.

The sessions included representatives from alliance partners and were supervised by Presiding Officers from the ANC Electoral Committee.

The nominated candidates will undergo interviews with ANC National Officials, and the chosen Premiers and Premier candidates will be announced next week.

Bhengu-Motsiri stated that each PEC had to nominate three Premier candidates, with at least two being women.