2017 a critical year for ANC: analyst
Leaders of the ANC should put the organisation's interests above their own.
This according to political analyst Dr Mcebisi Ndleteyana, in the run-up to this weekend's much anticipated 105th anniversary celebrations of the ruling party.
Ndleteyana says South Africa has entered a very critical year when it comes to the future of the ruling party.
The ANC is entering its succession debate ahead of the elective conference in December.
"The first and fundamental point the ANC should look into is that leaders of the organisation should put the organisation first, above their own individual and personal interests," says Ndleteyana
Ndleteyana says the big question is whether ANC leaders will be able to do so.
The nature and outcome of the political fight will also determine the ANC's fate come 2019.
Ndleteyana says tensions are likely to increase in the party, especially since the NEC is divided over Jacob Zuma's Presidency.
He adds the issue of the Gupta family and their influence on the state can further divide the ANC, if the Judicial Commission of Inquiry goes ahead.
"It is quite critical that the ANC deals with this year quite prudently, because what it does this year will pretty much determine how it will perform in the elections in 2019. This is a very important year that requires a lot of reflection and unity of purpose, because continued divisions within the ANC will worsen the decline," says Ndleteyana.