ANC IS READY TO CONVENE THE 5TH NATIONAL GENERAL COUNCIL

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CHANON LECODEY MERRICKS ONLINE_EDITOR©®™ 

ANC IS READY TO CONVENE THE 5TH NATIONAL GENERAL COUNCIL 

The African National Congress (ANC) affirms its full readiness to convene the 5th National General Council (NGC), which officially commences tomorrow, 

This gathering of the oldest and most enduring liberation movement marks a critical moment of reflection, evaluation, and reaffirmation of the Movement’s historic mission. The NGC provides the ANC with an opportunity to pause, take stock, and honestly assess the strides made and the setbacks encountered in the march toward the National Democratic Revolution. 

It is no secret that our organisation continues to face sustained pressure from those who seek to undermine its authority, distort its heritage, and dilute the symbols of our liberation. These machinations, including recent attempts by certain political formations to appropriate our legacy, will not deter the ANC from advancing the principles of freedom, democracy, and transformation. 

The ANC extends its gratitude to all supporters and, in particular, to members of the media for their commitment to covering this landmark event. A total of 687 journalists and media personnel, from South Africa and abroad, have registered, making this one of the most widely covered NGCs in the democratic era. 

This NGC carries significant political weight rooted in key developments within the Movement: 

• The ANC Renewal Project is firmly underway, with focused work to restore organisational integrity and reconnect with the motive forces. 

• Governance across various spheres of the state is stabilising, reflecting the movement’s commitment to credible and ethical leadership. • The message from the ground is clear: The ANC is not merely another political formation, it remains the only organisation with a broad, democratic mandate across the length and breadth of our country. 

As we move forward, the ANC will act with intention, purpose, and renewed discipline. The silence that may come from our direction at key moments will not be uncertainty—it will be deliberate listening, a vital component of renewal and reconnection. 

The ANC is ready. The delegates are ready. Most importantly, the people of South Africa are ready for this moment of organisational introspection and decisive progress. 

The Secretary General of the ANC, Cde Fikile Mbalula, has confirmed the organisation’s full state of readiness to deliver a successful, credible, and orderly 5th NGC. 

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SUICIDE AMONG SOUTH AFRICAN YOUTH

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CHANON LECODEY MERRICKS ONLINE_EDITOR©®™

SUICIDE AMONG SOUTH AFRICAN YOUTH

The Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities (DWYPD) is deeply concerned about the escalating rates of suicide among young people in South Africa.  South Africa has a significant and growing suicide crisis, with a national rate of around 23.5 per 100,000 people, one of the highest in Africa. Suicide is the second leading cause of death among young people aged 15-29.  

Research indicates that nearly one in five learners has attempted suicide at least once, while many more report persistent sadness, depression, hopelessness, trauma, bullying, and the emotional impact of socio-economic hardship. For young people living with disabilities, the risks can be even higher due to stigma, exclusion, and limited access to support services. 

The DWYPD emphasises that suicide is preventable. Protecting the mental well-being of young people requires a society-wide commitment. Families, schools, government departments, faith-based organisations, youth formations, and communities must collectively create safe, supportive environments where young people feel seen, heard, and valued. 

The DWYPD calls for: Greater investment in psychosocial services, including trained counsellors, social workers, and youth workers. • Access to mental health support within schools, communities, and youth-serving institutions. 

• Strengthened early intervention systems to identify warning signs before crises occur. 

• Community awareness campaigns to reduce stigma around mental illness and encourage help-seeking behaviour. 

• Support for families and caregivers, equipping them to respond compassionately and effectively. 

The Department further urges the public to recognise the signs of distress among young people, including withdrawal, hopelessness, changes in behaviour, substance abuse, and talk of self-harm. Early intervention is critical—and can save lives. 

A reminder to all young people that help is available, and they can reach out. Anyone feeling overwhelmed, depressed, or in need of support is encouraged to contact: SADAG Suicide Crisis Line: 0800 567 567 SMS 31393 for immediate assistance. 

The DWYPD reaffirms its commitment to advancing the rights, protection, and empowerment of South Africa’s youth. Preventing suicide is a shared responsibility. 

Together, we can safeguard the mental well-being of our young people and build a society where every youth has hope, opportunity, and support. 

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