Media Statements
ANC DISTANCES ITSELF FROM HIGHVELD DIOCESE GATHERING BY SOME PRIESTS AND LAITY OF THE ANGLICAN CHURCH
- 21 February 2025
The African National Congress (ANC) and the ANC Chaplaincy note the planned gathering by members of the clergy, laity, and concerned Anglicans regarding internal matters within the Highveld Diocese. As a matter of principle, the ANC does not involve itself in the internal matters of any faith-based institution including the Anglican Church.
Religious institutions have well-established mechanisms for conflict resolution, and it remains critical that such matters are handled within the structures of the Church, including through the oversight of its leadership.
The ANC values its historical relationship with the Anglican Church and the broader faith community, which has played a significant role in the liberation struggle and the moral renewal of society. The Anglican Church, alongside other religious bodies, has been an important partner in the promotion of social justice, reconciliation, and nation-building. It is in this spirit that the ANC continues to engage with faith-based organisations to strengthen social cohesion and moral regeneration.
We reaffirm our commitment to working with the religious sector in advancing the collective aspirations of South Africans and encourage all parties to seek peaceful and constructive ways to resolve differences in a manner that preserves the unity and integrity of the Church.
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ISSUED BY THE AFRICAN NATIONAL CONGRESS.
Mahlengi Bhengu-Motsiri
National Spokesperson
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