“I Sacrificed Too Much to Be Treated Like This”: Veteran ANC Leader Quits Over Party’s Direction

A longtime African National Congress (ANC) branch chairperson has resigned in frustration, delivering a powerful message that’s resonating far beyond his local community. “I sacrificed too much to be taken for a fool,” he said in a candid statement announcing his decision marking yet another high-profile departure from South Africa’s ruling party.

This respected grassroots leader, who has dedicated decades to the ANC’s cause, says he can no longer stand by as the organization drifts further from its founding principles. He publicly stepped down, citing deep disappointment with the party’s leadership and its perceived failure to evolve or deliver meaningful change.

“I have stepped down as the Chairperson of the ANC Branch in my community,” he said. “I can no longer continue to lead an organization that is stationary, despite my lifelong commitment to fighting for freedom. Some leaders now treat me as a fool, despite the sacrifices I have made.”

His resignation is a significant loss for the local branch, which has long benefited from his experience and leadership. But it also sends a strong message about the internal tensions bubbling within the ANC. The party, once hailed as the moral compass of post-apartheid South Africa, is now facing mounting criticism from within its own ranks.

Veteran members are increasingly voicing their frustration, accusing the current leadership of losing sight of the ANC’s founding values. Some say the party is no longer focused on serving the people, but instead, has become entangled in self-interest and political infighting.

“The ANC is no longer the movement it once was,” said another elder member. “Some leaders have forgotten the core principles that once guided us. It’s not about the people anymore it’s about personal agendas.”

This latest resignation is part of a growing pattern. Long-serving members are stepping away, citing a lack of direction, transparency, and accountability especially in tackling corruption and poor governance. With these departures piling up, doubts are growing about the ANC’s ability to hold onto its support base.

So far, the party’s leadership has remained silent. No official comment has been made at either the provincial or national level. Locally, a replacement for the outgoing chairperson has yet to be announced, and some say it will be tough to fill the gap left by someone so committed and respected.

The ANC’s image is under increasing pressure, both from external critics and from voices within its own house. As the party grapples with its identity and prepares for future elections, the question is no longer just about policy it’s about whether it can reconnect with those who helped build it from the ground up.