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Former President Mbeki Guides ANC in Introspective International Relations Subcommittee Retreat

Published November 03, 2024
3 months ago

In an insightful move to redefine its position and influence on the international stage, the African National Congress (ANC) welcomed insight from former President Thabo Mbeki at its international relations subcommittee retreat held in Boksburg. As the party wrestles with its global diplomatic stance, the committee convened to address recent controversies and reassess strategies within prominent international forums.





The retreat, orchestrated under the leadership of first deputy secretary-general Nomvula Mokonyane, who also chairs the international relations subcommittee, spans over two days of intensive discussions. High on the agenda are the ANC’s internal discrepancies over foreign relations, most notably the discord with its Government of National Unity partner, the Democratic Alliance (DA), and division within the party itself on matters concerning Morocco and the ongoing Russia–Ukraine conflict.


Obed Bapela, deputy of the international relations subcommittee, had made waves with his apparent overtures towards Morocco, a position that conflicts with the ANC’s traditional support for the Sahrawi people of Western Sahara. Simultaneously, the DA's strong opposition to the ANC's and President Cyril Ramaphosa's approach towards Russia has only added fuel to these policy tensions. The ANC retreat is anticipated to reconcile these contentious viewpoints and find common ground within its ranks.


In addition to resolving intra-party issues, the subcommittee's remit for the weekend retreat includes deliberation on broader concerns such as the crisis in Gaza and the war in Ukraine. By revisiting these topics, the ANC seeks not only to solidify its policy on specific international incidents but to als0 consider how the unfolding narratives align with the party's principles and South Africa's national interests.


Mbeki's participation emphasizes the importance of this gathering, as his experience and insights are invaluable in guiding the party through the complex web of international relations. The ANC has also set out to scrutinize its role and effectiveness within influential regional and global bodies – the Southern African Development Community (SADC), the African Union (AU), BRICS, the G20, and the United Nations. This assessment is crucial to ensure that the ANC continues to play a meaningful role on the world stage, advocating for Africa's development and contributing to the resolution of global challenges.


The outcomes of this introspective session aim to secure a more cohesive and principled approach to international affairs, acknowledging the evolving geopolitical landscape. As the ANC shapes its foreign policy initiatives, it positions itself as a significant voice advocating for peace, justice, and development – principals that are foundational to its political ideology and history.


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