Cape Town – The African National Congress (ANC) has directed its national chairperson, Gwede Mantashe, to apologise for remarks he made during a television interview while campaigning in the North West province on Saturday, 17 October.
The controversy arose during an interview with Newzroom Afrika, in which Mantashe used explicit language while responding to allegations of “sex-for-jobs” practices. He argued that councillors who demanded sexual favours were acting in their individual capacity and that their conduct should not automatically be attributed to the ANC.
In a statement, the ANC said its National Officials and National Working Committee had held extensive discussions about the remarks and resolved that Mantashe should offer “a sincere apology”.
“The matter is considered closed,” the party said.
The ANC used the statement to reaffirm its commitment to protecting women’s rights, dignity and equality, stressing that women should be empowered to realise their full potential without facing exploitation or discrimination.
“The ANC reiterates its firm policy position that women deserve respect, dignity, empowerment and the opportunity to realise their full potential,” the statement read.
ANC STATEMENT ON THE REMARKS OF NATIONAL CHAIRPERSON COMRADE GWEDE MANTASHE https://t.co/3pYbu14gOD
— ANC – African National Congress (@MYANC) October 22, 2026
The party acknowledged that unequal gender and power relations continued to expose women to sexual exploitation, including demands for sexual favours in exchange for employment and other opportunities.
“Such conduct constitutes a grave abuse of power and must be eliminated from our society,” the ANC said.
It also reminded its leaders of their responsibility to uphold the party’s principles through their words and actions, particularly in confronting discrimination and advancing gender equality.
“Leaders of the ANC carry a heightened responsibility to uphold these principles through their words and actions, confront discrimination and advance gender equality,” the statement said.
The party reiterated its commitment to ensuring that women are protected from abuse and coercion in all spheres of society.
“The ANC remains unequivocal in its commitment to building a society in which every woman can live and work free from coercion, abuse and discrimination,” it said.
The statement was issued by ANC national spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu on behalf of the party.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
