Jongizizwe Dlabathi Resigns as ANC Ekurhuleni Secretary Again
Dlabathi steps down for the second time, citing focus on municipal responsibilities over party role.
The Full Story
In a stunning move, Jongizizwe Dlabathi has resigned from his position as the African National Congress (ANC) Ekurhuleni regional secretary for the second time this year. His resignation, confirmed through a letter from ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula dated September 2, 2026, highlights ongoing complexities within the party and the municipal structure. Dlabathi has chosen to prioritize his role within local government, eschewing the full-time demands of a regional party official in compliance with ANC mandates.
This resignation is not an isolated incident; in February 2026, Dlabathi initially stepped down from both his roles as the ANC Ekurhuleni regional secretary and as the City of Ekurhuleni’s finance MMC amidst intense political strains, particularly with ANC regional chairperson and Ekurhuleni Mayor, Nkosindiphile Xhakaza. Although he returned to his positions shortly thereafter, Dlabathi's latest resignation is significant. He will maintain his focus on municipal governance, signifying a pivot in priorities following a recent ANC directive that mandates regional secretaries must serve in a full-time capacity.
Following the resignation, the ANC issued directives requiring the Ekurhuleni Regional Executive Committee (REC) to quickly process the transition. They are to appoint an acting regional secretary from among REC members to fulfill duties until the next ANC Ekurhuleni regional conference. Moreover, Dlabathi has been instructed to facilitate a handover of all materials related to his office within seven days to ensure continuity during this transition period.
Dlabathi's decision to step back from the party role aligns with his previous indications during the ANC’s mayoral candidate interviews where he expressed a preference to focus on municipal governance. In light of this resignation, the ANC is prepping its regional executive and branches to maintain a strong campaign trajectory leading up to the local government elections slated for November 4, 2026, as they implement strategies to keep their presence robust. As the ANC works to stabilize its leadership dynamics, the party aims to ensure transparency regarding the concurrent developments while reinforcing confidence in its governance.
Dlabathi’s tenure as regional secretary, a role he assumed in August 2025, formally ends as he chooses to concentrate on municipal responsibilities amid a backdrop of political tensions and leadership adjustments. This latest turn of events underscores the shifting attitudes within the ANC in Ekurhuleni and the challenges inherent in balancing party and municipal governance, particularly in the face of upcoming electoral stakes. In conclusion, Dlabathi’s resignation signals a pivotal moment for both his political journey and the ANC's Ekurhuleni leadership as the party navigates through its current challenges and prepares for the forthcoming elections. The ANC's next actions will define not just the internal party structure but also the potential success of their election campaign endeavors.
Why It Matters
Dlabathi’s resignation illustrates the ongoing struggle for balance between party roles and municipal governance in the ANC, reflecting broader tensions within South African politics as elections approach. An effective leadership transition is crucial for electoral success.
What's Next
The ANC Ekurhuleni leadership will convene within days to appoint an acting regional secretary. The party is also set to announce transitional arrangements for stability and continuity ahead of the upcoming local government elections in November.