The African National Congress (ANC) held a memorial lecture on Sunday in honor of Mkholisi Nkanjeni, a revered hero of the struggle, organized by the Ward 42 branch. Mthetheli Sam, an ANC Provincial Executive Committee (PEC) member, delivered a motivational speech at the event, paying tribute to Nkanjeni’s lasting impact on the organization and the country.
Sam, affectionately known as No-Ten by his comrades, emphasized the importance of learning from history and maintaining political stability within the ANC. He likened the ANC’s efforts to renew its branches to the way people once gathered around a fire in the past to share stories and lessons, stressing the need for the organization to learn from the struggles of the past to build a stronger future.
“We have been obliged to reconstruct the entire organization, from local branch units to national leadership, during a time of rapid change and high expectations,” Sam said. “This process may be uneven, but we must not be discouraged.”
Nkanjeni was remembered as a unifying figure who inspired hope in the people and embodied the values of the ANC. Sam called for a deeper, more genuine engagement with members, urging the ANC to move beyond superficial involvement and “stop gatekeeping.”
The younger brother of Mkholisi Nkanjeni spoke emotionally about his sibling’s dedication to land reform, agriculture, and food security. He described Nkanjeni as a brave man who fought for the rights of the people, a sentiment echoed by ANC Youth League Dr. WB Rubusana regional leader, Ondela Sokomani. Sokomani praised the branch leaders for organizing the successful event, highlighting the rich history of Mdantsane and the role of the ANC in improving people’s lives.
Sokomani also emphasized the critical role of young people in revitalizing ANC branches and leagues, restoring dignity to the party, and rebuilding public trust. He noted that the ANC Veterans’ League had been tasked with revitalizing all 13 branches in Mdantsane, working closely with zonal leadership to strengthen the organization on the ground.
Despite the success of the event, Mzimkhuli Morgan pointed out the gap between leadership and the masses. He stressed the need for a developmental agenda that empowers people to sustain themselves and access essential services. Morgan also acknowledged the challenges posed by economic inequality, highlighting that the economy remained largely in the hands of the bourgeoisie, which created divisions among the people.
MKWLV Regional Secretary Nathi “Mzilikazi” Bukani reflected on Nkanjeni’s legacy, remembering him as a gallant fighter who preached unity among comrades. Mkhuseli Nombewu, who had recruited Nkanjeni into the struggle, shared that he had initially been drawn to Christianity before embracing politics. Nkanjeni later received military training in Lesotho, Angola, and Moscow as part of the ANC’s armed wing, Umkhonto we Sizwe (MK).
Ryan, another MK soldier who worked alongside Nkanjeni, described him as the embodiment of the people’s spirit. As the ANC commemorated Nkanjeni’s life, Bukani called on comrades to focus on engaging with the masses and delivering essential services, rather than chasing after political offices.
The event was a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by those like Mkholisi Nkanjeni and the ongoing work required to ensure that the ANC stays true to its mission of serving the people.
contributed by: Thabang Maseko.
