As the African National Congress (ANC) marks its 113th anniversary, the party faces a critical juncture in its storied history. Once the dominant force in South African politics, the ANC’s grip on power is loosening amidst internal strife, external challenges, and growing public dissatisfaction.

A significant blow came with the South African Communist Party’s (SACP) announcement to contest the 2026 local government elections independently. This unprecedented move signals a fracture in the historic alliance between the two parties, raising doubts about the ANC’s ability to maintain coalition governance.

The party’s challenges extend far beyond the SACP’s departure. The ANC’s internal power struggles, factionalism, and poor handling of socio-economic issues were starkly reflected in its 2024 general election performance, where it garnered just 40.18% of the national vote. This decline exposed deep divisions within the party and amplified criticism of its leadership.

Over the years, the ANC has weathered splits that gave rise to parties like the Pan Africanist Congress (PAC), Azanian People’s Organisation (AZAPO), United Democratic Movement (UDM), and Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF). More recently, the MK party, founded by former president Jacob Zuma, emerged as a formidable challenger, making notable gains in the 2024 elections.

Key moments in South Africa’s recent history have further dented the ANC’s standing. The Fees Must Fall movement, which began in 2015, highlighted the ANC’s failure to address youth concerns, particularly around access to education. Widespread corruption linked to state capture scandals, including the Gupta family’s influence over the ANC-led government, eroded public trust. The party’s inability to act decisively against those implicated has deepened disillusionment.

Contentious policies, such as the push for land expropriation without compensation, have added to the ANC’s woes. While intended to address historical injustices, critics argue these policies have created economic uncertainty and undermined investor confidence. The lack of clear guidance on implementation has compounded confusion among stakeholders, further damaging the party’s credibility.

Youth unemployment, now exceeding 50%, remains one of the ANC’s greatest failures, alienating young voters and fueling skepticism about the party’s ability to address pressing issues. Meanwhile, external pressures, such as the rise of opposition parties and the SACP’s withdrawal from its alliance, threaten to weaken the ANC’s influence further.

As the 2026 local government elections approach, the ANC must confront these challenges if it hopes to reverse its decline. However, with mounting internal divisions, eroded public trust, and external competition, the road ahead appears uncertain.

The outcome of the 2026 elections will not only determine the ANC’s future but will also have profound implications for South Africa’s political landscape. Whether the ANC can reclaim its dominance or continue its downward trajectory remains to be seen, but the stakes have never been higher.