Statement

During 2024, we, as the ANC Veterans League, were able to stamp our footprint on the South African political scene.

Our efforts have been focused mainly on the renewal of the ANC—for the ANC to reconnect with the people, remove from its ranks those who bring the organisation into disrepute, and rebuild the ANC from the branch level up through tightening up membership and improving political education.  Our core document sets an agenda for renewal and the Veterans League has been at the forefront of developing and rolling out the political education foundation course.

We were active in the national and provincial governments’ election campaign, with many veterans leading the way on door-to-door work, the key to a successful campaign. We have acknowledged the ANC’s strategic defeat in elections and see the GNU as a contested terrain where we need to work hard and skilfully to reset the economy and continue to build an inclusive, non-racial, non-sexist society.

We have engaged on key government policy issues that impact veterans, such as draft legislation concerning older persons and special pensions for those involved in the struggle.

As we move into the new year, growing and strengthening veteran league structures is key. The outstanding provincial conferences in Gauteng and KZN are high on our agenda. The building blocks for this are in place, such as establishing RTTs and launching branches in Gauteng.

We must also continue with our work supporting the repatriation and reburial of comrades who died in exile, using this opportunity to reach out to their families and communities to tell their stories and their contribution to the struggle. Sharing our experiences as veterans and relating them to current conditions is a significant contribution that we can make.

Next year will be important for the ANC. The National General Council will be an opportunity to review and reflect on ANC policies and practices, especially in preparation for the 2026 local government elections. As veterans, we will need to determine how to make the best possible contribution.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank members of the ANC Veterans League across the country for their contribution and dedication during 2024

Wishing you a restful and peaceful festive season.

Amandla!

Cde Snuki Zikalala
ANC VL President