Media Statement

The African National Congress (ANC) confirms that the movement, together with the Secretary-General, Cde Fikile Mbalula, in their respective capacities as the Second and Third Respondents, have today formally withdrawn the Application for Leave to Appeal the interim order of the Honourable Court.

The Notice of Withdrawal has been duly served on all relevant parties and filed with the Registrar of the East London Circuit Court of the Eastern Cape Division.

The withdrawal follows the receipt of the learned Judge’s formal reasons for the interim order and was taken on the considered advice of our legal team. We are satisfied that the issues raised in this matter are more substantively addressed through the other procedural avenues available to us before the Honourable Court.

These avenues will enable the African National Congress to demonstrate, on a full evidentiary footing, that the

movement has adhered to the order of the Court, and that the membership records and administrative processes of the ANC in the Eastern Cape are sound and consistent with the Constitution of the African National Congress and the governing instruments of the movement.

The African National Congress reaffirms its respect for the judicial authority of the courts of the Republic. The convening of the Provincial Elective Conference of the Eastern Cape will be undertaken in accordance with the ANC Constitution and consistent with the directions of our courts of law.

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