CAPE TOWN – The African National Congress’s (ANC) Dullah Omar region, a significant contributor in terms of ANC votes in the Western Cape, has elected new leadership amidst calls for unity and a focus on community service. The election, described as “history in the making” by provincial secretary Neville Delport, took place in Cape Town with results announced on Sunday afternoon.
Ndithini Tyhido, the chairperson of the Khayelitsha Development Forum, emerged victorious against Tshepo Moletsane for the regional chairperson position. The conference also saw Sonwabile Ngxiza and Pat Lekker contesting the deputy regional chairperson post, with Mvusi Mdala and Dee Badela vying for the regional secretary position. Mareldia Chowglay and Judyanne Stevens contested the deputy regional secretary position, while Lynne Abrahams and Anele Gabuza battled for the regional treasurer post.
Delport, in his address, emphasized the importance of unity and community service. He criticized the ANC’s previous approach, which he described as self-serving and detached from community concerns. “We are rejected by our communities because we are very self-serving. We don’t care about our communities anymore,” Delport remarked. He further challenged the ANC in the Cape Town metro to step up and make a significant contribution to election results, criticizing what he perceived as “lazy leadership” in the Dullah Omar region.
Delport’s call for unity and community service was echoed by Xolisa Peter, ANC provincial executive deployee to the region. Peter urged the region to come together to build a strong organization that would restore the ANC’s dignity. “We must come out united with a vibrant programme of action,” Peter stated.
The Dullah Omar region, named after anti-apartheid struggle stalwart Dullah Omar, has faced challenges in recent years. The ANC’s support in the region has been dwindling, with representation in the City of Cape Town dropping below 20% in the November 2021 elections. The region has been grappling with internal issues, including the absence of elected leaders since the regional structure was disbanded in February of the previous year.
As the ANC moves forward, the newly elected leadership of the Dullah Omar region faces the monumental task of uniting the party, reconnecting with communities, and restoring faith in the ANC’s ability to serve the people.
