In an opinion piece for TimesLIVE, columnist Malaika Mahlatsi argues that the position of secretary-general in South Africa's governing African National Congress has declined in stature. According to Mahlatsi, the role was historically occupied by respected intellectuals and leaders committed to social progress, a standing she contends it no longer holds today.

Inaccurate and unverified ID numbers have been found on ANC election candidate lists in South Africa, according to The Citizen. ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula stressed that the party's court challenge over the issue should not be interpreted as an attack on the credibility of the electoral process. The development raises questions about the accuracy of candidate registration ahead of elections.

The Citizen has published its cartoon of the day for 8 September 2026, which focuses on the state of South Africa's governing party, the African National Congress. The cartoon poses the question of whether the ANC has been destroyed by its current leaders, reflecting ongoing public debate and commentary about the party's direction and leadership. As an editorial cartoon, it represents the publication's satirical take on a contested political question rather than a factual assertion about the party's condition.

A TimesLIVE poll asks whether South African voters can trust the ANC to manage their municipalities if the party cannot correctly compile its election candidate lists. The question comes amid growing concerns over service delivery, as the governing party reportedly struggles with basic election procedures ahead of local polls. The poll invites readers to weigh in on the ANC's administrative competence and its implications for municipal governance.

ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula is facing a backlash within the party over chaos surrounding its election candidate lists, according to TimesLIVE. Candidates were reportedly left off lists submitted to the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC), putting the party at risk of losing control of some municipalities. The blunder has sparked internal criticism of Mbalula, known as 'Boss', over his handling of the selection process.

ANC leaders in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) have paid a visit to the family home of the late Dr Ntuthuko Mahlaba to offer their condolences and support during their time of grief.