On Thursday, May 23, 2024, the ANC Women’s League gathered at Amakhosi Hall in Ngwelezane, Empangeni, for a prayer session ahead of the upcoming elections. Members from the King Cetshwayo District came together in large numbers to pray for peaceful elections, addressing issues such as gender-based violence and seeking protection and wisdom for their leaders. Pastors from various denominations led the prayers, laying hands on ANC councillors and high-ranking officials.
Prominent attendees included Mrs. Thembeka Mchunu, a member of the ANC Women’s League National Executive Committee (NEC), Mrs. Nomalungelo Gina, Deputy Chairperson of the South African Communist Party (SACP) in KwaZulu-Natal, Ms. Mbali Bani, the LET coordinator for the ANC’s Musa Dladla Region, Ms. Nontembeko, the Speaker in the KZN Legislature, and Nqobile, a representative of the Young Women’s Desk. The speakers emphasized the importance of voting for the ANC and encouraged members to mobilize voters.
Nomalungelo Gina, in her message of support, stated that the ANC represents hope not only for South Africa but for the entire African continent. She urged the Women’s League to defend the ANC against detractors by casting their votes. Gina praised the organization’s unity and noted that those causing division had left the party.
Ms. Nontembeko highlighted that while some of the ANC’s work may not yield immediate results, it does not mean progress is not being made. She urged patience and continued support for the party’s efforts.
Mrs. Thembeka Mchunu shared historical context, recounting the discrimination women faced under the apartheid-era KwaZulu Government. She described how women earned less than men despite having the same qualifications and were forced to take unpaid maternity leave. Unmarried pregnant women would lose their jobs as qualified teachers. Mchunu warned against the return of the IFP, referencing their past discriminatory practices and criticizing their current administration in King Cetshwayo District. She pointed out issues like inadequate refuse removal and the municipality’s financial mismanagement under the IFP’s leadership.
Mchunu encouraged the ANC Women’s League to ensure their constituency votes on May 29. She urged each volunteer to bring at least five voters to secure victory and send a clear message to the IFP that the ANC is determined to reclaim King Cetshwayo District.
