The African National Congress (ANC) has confirmed that at least 70% of its candidates for the upcoming local government elections must have previous experience in a sphere of government.
According to the party, the new criteria are part of an effort to ensure that candidate lists feature capable, qualified, and experienced individuals who can strengthen performance in municipalities across the country.
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The party’s electoral committee outlined the revised requirements during a media briefing on Monday, stressing that experience in governance would form a central part of the selection process.
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“For continuity and government experience, at least 70% of the candidates must have previous experience in any sphere of government, as successful and effective public representatives, members of the executive, or as officials employed in government, any time in the last 31 years.

“This does not mean retaining 70% of current councillors. It means casting the net as widely as possible to find all the best talent we have deployed over the years in all parts of government.”
ANC Prioritises Governance Skills in Candidate Selection
The party believes that prioritising individuals familiar with public administration will help address persistent service delivery and governance challenges in many municipalities.
The electoral committee emphasised that this requirement aims to improve stability rather than preserve incumbency.
Officials added that the rule encourages branches to look beyond current councillors and identify experienced members who have served in government over the last three decades.
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Selection Process Set to Balance Renewal and Experience
As the ruling party prepares for the elections, the committee will guide structures through a nomination process that balances renewal with institutional knowledge.
While experience is a key criterion, the party maintains that it is also seeking community-focused leaders capable of restoring public confidence in local government.
Further details on the party’s election readiness are expected in the coming weeks.
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