GQEBERHA – The African National Congress (ANC) is facing a new legal challenge over its Eastern Cape Provincial Executive Committee (PEC).
The PEC is led by Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane.
ANC Confirms PEC Will Stay
The ANC national leadership says the PEC will continue its work.
The party made the announcement on 19 August 2026.
This follows a High Court judgment delivered on 28 June 2026.
Meanwhile, ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula communicated the decision on behalf of the party’s National Officials.
Luntu Sokutu Challenges the Decision
However, ANC member Luntu Sokutu has rejected the decision.
Sokutu has written to Mbalula.
In his letter, he calls for the PEC’s reinstatement to be withdrawn.
According to Sokutu, the PEC’s term ended on 8 May 2026.
He says the ANC cannot bring back the PEC without holding a Provincial Elective Conference.
He also says the move goes against the ANC Constitution.
Mbalula Given Seven Days
As a result, Sokutu has given Mbalula seven days to dissolve the PEC.
If Mbalula does not act, Sokutu says he may take further legal action.
Sokutu also argues that no ANC structure or individual can extend the term of an expired structure.
Furthermore, he says the ANC must first amend its Constitution before it can extend the term.
According to Sokutu, only a National Conference can make such a change.
ANC Defends Eastern Cape PEC
The ANC has not indicated that it will dissolve the PEC.
Instead, the party says the Eastern Cape PEC will continue with its organisational duties.
The PEC will operate under Premier Oscar Mabuyane.
The ANC says it will follow the court order.
Legal Battle Could Continue
The latest dispute adds to the political and legal challenges facing the ANC in the Eastern Cape.
For now, the PEC remains in place.
However, Sokutu’s seven-day demand could lead to another court battle.
The dispute could also raise further questions about the future of the ANC’s provincial leadership.
