The ANC regional chairperson for Ehlanzeni, Jackie Macie, emphasised the importance of unity within the party. “Unity is the cornerstone on which the ANC was founded,” Macie said at Nutting House Lodge on Monday, during the 9th ANC Ehlanzeni Regional Elective Conference, which ran from Saturday, September 6, to Monday, September 8.

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At the conference, Macie was re-elected for a second term, securing a convincing 160 votes, while his rival, William Nkatha, received around 50 votes. Macie was first elected as ANC regional chairperson in 2021. In 2023, he was deployed to the Mpumalanga Provincial Legislature, and following the 2024 general election he became a permanent member.

Premier Mandla Ndlovu subsequently appointed him as MEC for community safety, security and liaison.
Macie stressed the need for the ANC to unite and work towards winning the next election decisively. “Not just winning by a slight margin,” he said.

Addressing unemployment, Macie highlighted government programmes aimed at assisting young people. “The unemployment numbers are very high; it is important that we offer support,” he said.

Alongside Macie’s re-election, the conference confirmed the rest of the region’s leadership team, known as the “top five”: Makhosazane Masilela as deputy chairperson, Folas Sibuyi as secretary, Siyabonga Malandule as deputy secretary, and Morries Mazibane as treasurer. All candidates accepted their nominations.

ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula addressed the conference on Sunday, emphasising party discipline and unity while warning against internal divisions. “Each delegate at this conference has a task: to contribute meaningfully to robust discussions that must result in resolutions giving practical expression to the renewal programme in Ehlanzeni,” he said.

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Mbalula also stressed the importance of active ANC branches in all communities.

“Our branches must champion the needs and aspirations of South Africans, using their proximity to the levers of power to hold party members accountable for maintaining roads, delivering basic services, ensuring access to water, and addressing other service delivery challenges,” he said.