Written by Lisa Murimi
The African National Congress (ANC) has confirmed that a delegation led by its Deputy Secretary General, Nomvula Mokonyane, recently concluded an official visit to the United Republic of Tanzania.
The visit was made at the invitation of the ANC’s sister party, Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM), to observe the ongoing electoral process in the East African nation.
According to a statement released by ANC National Spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu on Thursday, the delegation’s mission was part of the party’s long-standing tradition of political solidarity and collaboration with liberation movements across the continent.
The visit, she said, reflected the ANC’s commitment to fostering regional unity and supporting democratic governance in Africa.
“In that spirit, the delegation participated in the final pre-election rallies, underscoring our long-standing sisterly bonds,” the statement read.
However, the ANC disclosed that a breakdown in communication occurred during the mission, preventing the delegation from observing aspects of the electoral process as initially planned.
“The reasons for the communication breakdown remain unclear,” the statement noted, adding that the Deputy Secretary General would brief the ANC’s leadership on the issue.
The party emphasized that it continued to place confidence in accredited regional and international observer missions to assess the integrity of Tanzania’s elections.
Despite the setback, the ANC reaffirmed its solidarity with the people of Tanzania and its confidence in regional institutions mandated to oversee election integrity.
“We look forward to the comprehensive assessments of the accredited observer missions,” Bhengu stated.
The party further expressed its appreciation of the historical relationship between South Africa and Tanzania — one rooted in the shared struggle for liberation and the advancement of decolonial aspirations.
“The ANC values its relationship with the people of Tanzania and remains committed to fostering constructive collaboration across the continent,” the statement concluded.
Deputy Secretary General Mokonyane has since returned to South Africa following the completion of the visit.
