‘Vote for your party of choice’ says Sanco KZN leadership
Sanco to exit all political affiliations. Members can choose whoever they like - Sanco President Richard Mdakane
THE already bumpy road to the national and provincial elections became even rougher when the South African National Civic Organisation (Sanco) held its KZN elective conference in eSikhaleni on Thursday.
What was supposed to be a non-biased process of electing Sanco provincial leaders became a platform for political campaigning, with leaders and members sitting on different sides of the fence on which political party the organisation should support during the general elections in May.
At the beginning of the conference, the majority openly campaigned for Sanco members to vote for the newly-formed uMkhonto Wesizwe (MK). However, this caused tension, especially with the organisation having been formed by members from various political parties.
Sanco Provincial Secretary Thembinkosi Tembe said, while he has decided to vote for MK during the elections, the choice remains with an individual.
While the organisation has previously been allied with the ANC, Sanco President Richard Mdakane echoed Tembe’s sentiments, saying ‘this time around things have changed’.
“This organisation is formed by people from different political parties, and that’s why we can’t push for one party. Everyone has a choice to vote for whoever they choose.
“We must understand that this organisation is for everyone, regardless of the political parties. This is not a ground for politics,” he said.
Redefining the organisation
With new leaders elected, Mdakane encouraged them to understand their position and role in society.
During his address, he reminded them to focus on ‘bread and butter’ issues.
“We must redefine ourselves - we must know our roles in society. As a civil movement, we must address problems facing our people.
“Our key responsibility is towards citizens who are currently facing many issues. People are faced with many challenges such as crime increase, electricity and water issues.
“Health and education systems are failing people. There is lack of, or terrible, service delivery. We need to work with people on the ground, councillors and other non-government organisations. “A programme must be in place to do all this. We just need to be the light that shines bright for its residents,” he said.
Among leaders elected for KZN were Jabulani Zondi, who was reinstated as chairperson, with Thembinkosi Tembe from King Cetshwayo taking the provincial secretary position again and Busi Khumalo from Zululand returning as treasurer. Representing Ilembe District was Dr Philimon Zondo as deputy chairperson, Khethukuthula Mbonambi from eMandeni as deputy secretary and Bongani Nsele from eThekwini as provincial organiser. The leadership also includes 17 additional members.