Mbalula says ANC candidate list 'significantly different'

Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula says the candidates were carefully selected through a rigorous, transparent and democratic process.

Speaking at Luthuli House on Monday, he said the party started selecting in August.

"The ANC candidate selection process was guided by a new set of rules, aimed at promoting transparency, integrity, meritocracy, vibrant internal democracy, broader participation of the alliance and mass democratic movement and a thorough evaluation of each candidate's profile.    

Mbalula said the selection process was done according to strict criteria that included criminal record checks and lifestyle audits.

"Firstly, it is most important that candidates do not have any pending court cases, or disciplinary hearings. This allows them to fully focus on their responsibilities without distractions or legal complications. In addition, candidates who have been recommended for suspension by the NEC after their cases have been finalised by the integrity commission are also not illegible for nomination."

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Mbalula added that the candidate list reflects the country's diverse population.

"Additionally, the list should also represent all national groups, the ANC list should also reflect the alliance. The ANC candidates represent an intergenerational mix and advance the generational transition in our country. For the first time the 1976 and the 1980s generation together with the millennial constitute of over 60%, the rest are made of the remainder of the earlier generation of struggle veterans and the 2000s." 

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