The African National Congress (ANC) has noted with serious concern the circulation of social media images depicting the distribution of food parcels while displaying the name, colours and branding of the ANC by Cde Bernice Swarts, a Member of Parliament and Deputy Minister. These images create the false impression that the activity forms part of an official ANC programme or campaign.
The ANC wishes to state categorically that the distribution reflected in these images is not an ANC campaign and was not authorised by any structure of the organisation. The organisation therefore distances itself from these actions and emphasises that the activity was not undertaken under the mandate or authority of the ANC.
The ANC recognises that many of its members across the country play an important social responsibility role in their communities by assisting vulnerable households and supporting local initiatives. Such acts of solidarity reflect the values of Ubuntu and service to the people that define the movement. However, members are reminded that acts of charity or community assistance must never be conducted using the ANC name, colours or branding, nor should they be presented as organisational programmes when they are private initiatives.
The movement further underscores that assistance to communities must always uphold the dignity and respect of the people, and must never be conducted in a manner that may diminish their humanity.
The organisation has taken internal steps to address the matter and reprimanded the comrade involved, together with those who participated in the activity under the ANC banner without authorisation. The ANC calls on all members, organisations and individuals to refrain from misusing the ANC name and symbols, particularly in ways that undermine the dignity of communities or mislead the public.
The movement remains committed to advancing lasting solutions to poverty, unemployment and inequality in line with its historic mission to build a better life for all.
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