By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The African National Congress (ANC) Gauteng Provincial Task Team (PTT) welcomed the successful hosting of the ANC Sedibeng 16th Regional Conference.
The regional conference was held from 21–23 November 2025 at the ANEW Hotel in Benoni under the theme “Building People’s Power Towards a Capable and Inclusive Vaal Regional Economy.”
It comes after a tussle from other branches who claimed that they were being shut out of the conference.
The conference is crucial as ANC eyes a strong showing in the 2026 local government elections. It’s a barometer for the party’s grip on a region scarred by de-industrialisation and service woes.
PTT Co-Convener Panyaza Lesufi, alongside PTT Coordinator Hope Papo and other deployees, officially opened the Conference.
Delegates elected a new regional leadership collective made up of:
– Chairperson: Mlungisi Hlongwane
– Deputy Chairperson: Sibongile Soxuza
– Regional Secretary: Jason Mkhwane
– Deputy Secretary: Mamohale Moloi
– Treasurer: Hassan Mako
The conference proceeded peacefully with high discipline and active participation in commissions and plenary sessions. Key resolutions focused on organisational renewal, economy, social transformation, improved service delivery, and good governance. Delegates also prioritised revitalising Sedibeng’s industrial base and attracting new industries.
In his closing remarks, newly elected chairperson Hlongwane invoked the words of O.R. Tambo, emphasising that the ANC must remain a people-centered force for liberation.
The conference was formally closed by ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula, who stressed the need for strong policy engagement ahead of the ANC National General Council (ANC) in December 2025.