The African National Congress (ANC) has instructed its national chairperson, Gwede Mantashe, to issue a sincere apology following controversial remarks he made regarding allegations of councillors demanding sex for jobs. The directive came after the party’s national officials and the National Working Committee reviewed the matter and concluded it was resolved.
Mantashe made the comments on 17 October 2026 while campaigning in the North West. He was responding to questions about claims that some councillors had exploited women by demanding sexual favours in exchange for employment opportunities. He distanced himself from the issue, stating, “Don’t involve me in issues of asking for [sex]; this person asked for sex from a person that he encountered; this can’t be an ANC issue.”
The ANC Women’s League quickly condemned Mantashe’s remarks, describing them as “uncouth behaviour” and demanding a public apology alongside disciplinary action. Despite Mantashe stating on 22 October that he had apologised, he expressed confusion about what specifically warranted the apology, saying, “I’m apologising, but I don’t know what I must apologise for.”
In a statement on 23 October, the ANC emphasised the heightened responsibility its leaders have to uphold dignity, challenge discrimination, and promote gender equality. It declared, “Following these deliberations, the national chairperson has been directed to offer a sincere apology and the matter is considered closed.”
The party’s firm response highlights ongoing tensions within the ANC about addressing gender-based concerns and maintaining a culture of respect and accountability among its leadership. Although Mantashe’s remarks refer to allegations of sexual misconduct by councillors, these claims have not been independently verified or proven in court according to available reports.
The ANC’s commitment to gender equality remains under scrutiny as it navigates internal discipline and public confidence. This incident underscores broader challenges the party faces in confronting discrimination and abuse within its ranks, especially amid a national conversation on corruption and misconduct.
CapeFlats.co.za will monitor any further developments, including whether disciplinary measures beyond the apology will follow and if investigations into the underlying sex-for-jobs allegations progress.