Mpumalanga MEC for Community Safety, Security and Liaison, Jackie Macie, has been re-elected as chairperson of the African National Congress (ANC) in the eHlazeni Region.

The regional elective conference, which opened on Saturday amid disputes, concluded on Monday at Nutting House Lodge in Mbombela. Delegates from 99 of the region’s 130 branches participated in the proceedings.

Following his re-election, Macie urged members to put aside divisions and focus on preparing for the 2026 Local Government Elections.

“There is no longer a conference; we must now focus on the 2026/27 local government elections. That is our main objective. The resolutions adopted here must restore people’s trust in the ANC and show them that the organisation remains committed to serving communities,” said Macie.

William Nkatha, Speaker of the City of Mbombela and Macie’s rival for the position, accepted the outcome and pledged support for the newly elected leadership. He emphasised that the contest had not been about individuals but about the democratic process. Nkatha stressed that the elected leadership now carried the responsibility of guiding all members, whether they supported them or not, and that unity would be essential as the local government elections approached.

The conference outcome is regarded as a crucial step for the ANC in eHlazeni as it prepares for 2026, with party unity seen as essential to regaining public trust and strengthening its position in local communities.