The start of the African National Congress (ANC) 55th National Conference was briefly disrupted by some delegates as President Cyril Ramaphosa delivered his opening address at the Nasrec Expo Centre in Johannesburg.
Disgruntled delegates chanted their dissatisfaction with the party’s current NEC, saying that their tenure will soon be over and that it’s about time they made way for a younger generation of leaders.
As proceedings are set to get underway, a group of disgruntled delegates continue singing voicing their dissatisfaction with the current #ANCNEC. #ANCConference #sabcnews pic.twitter.com/Ti1fUkyNQz
— Paballo Lephaka (@Pabi_Lephaka) December 16, 2022
As National Chairperson Gwede Mantashe attempted to address them, delegates shouted “rest Gwede rest”, saying his time is over.
Delegates further disrupted proceedings, breaking out into song and demanding Ramaphosa to step aside.
As President Cyril Ramaphosa addresses the crowd, delegates in the background shouting “Step Aside” #ANCConference #sabcnews pic.twitter.com/lX8u58TZDV
— Paballo Lephaka (@Pabi_Lephaka) December 16, 2022
During his opening address, Ramaphosa called on all delegates to respect proceedings and to respect the conference in its entirety.
Ramaphosa also paid homage to Chris Hani, adding that is a shame that his killer, Janusz Walus, has been released on parole.
With delegates still chanting in the background during President Cyril Ramaphosa’s address, Ramaphosa pays tribute to Chris Hani, saying it is a pity that his killer has been released on parole. #ANCConference #sabcnews pic.twitter.com/467dFFDYOq
— Paballo Lephaka (@Pabi_Lephaka) December 16, 2022
Earlier, tons of delegates forced their way into the UNISA conference centre in Ormonde where accreditation is being done.
Hundreds of delegates had been waiting since early this morning to get accreditation.
Some delegates said they arrived on Thursday but left empty-handed.
ANC President Cyril Ramaphosa’s Political Report:
ANC National Conference opening: