Grant Pascoe
The ANC in the Western Cape is not just in decline. It is in retreat. In areas like Mitchells Plain, Bishop Lavis and Kraaifontein, coloured voters have already turned away. In towns like Paarl, Piketberg, Robertson and Laingsburg, the same is happening. Even in rural communities such as Ladismith, Klawer and Barrydale, support is falling fast. This is more than a drop in votes. It is a sign that the ANC has lost touch with the people.
The party is too focused on itself. It spends time fighting over lists, positions and conferences instead of serving communities. Many branches are inactive or exist only on paper. Internal battles matter more than real issues like housing, jobs, and safety. The ANC speaks of unity and renewal, but those words mean little without results.
Navel-Gazing While Focussing on Personal Benefits
Councillors, MPLs and MPs are sent to represent people, yet many are invisible. In places like Delft, Vredendal and Oudtshoorn, people do not even know who their ANC representatives are. These officials are quiet in council meetings and absent in their wards. They are not fixing problems or leading in their communities. Many are more interested in using their positions for personal gain. In towns like Beaufort West and Kannaland, residents have seen this over and over. The focus is on benefits, not service.
Young Talent Sidelined Amidst a Collapse of Trust
In Coloured areas, frustration continues to grow. When new activists step forward, they are pushed aside. In places like Atlantis and Grabouw, young leaders are blocked instead of supported. The party views fresh voices with suspicion. Spies are sent into meetings and groups to report on those who speak out. Loyalty to factions is placed above commitment to communities.
ANC’s Insularity Loses Sight of Continued Inequality
At the same time, Black African communities in Khayelitsha, Mbekweni and Thembalethu still live with poverty and neglect. Many residents face poor services, overcrowded schools and no jobs. They have supported the ANC for years but see very little change. Their anger is growing. Racial inequality remains a major issue in the Western Cape, and the ANC has failed to lead the fight against it.
This is the result of insularity. A party that talks only to itself loses connection with the people. Remembering the past is not enough. History does not replace action. Celebrating old leaders does not build new trust. That is why the ANC is shrinking. It is not the fault of the DA or anyone else. It is because the ANC has closed its eyes and ears.
WC ANC Needs to Change to Survive
If it wants to survive, it must stop protecting weak leaders and pushing out new ones. It must rebuild real branches, speak honestly, and serve the people again. The work must start on the ground, in every ward and town.
