The Interim National Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Rauf Aregbesola has vowed to model international best practices in party organisation, administration, and ethics.
In his acceptance speech, Aregbesola emphasised that a political party is not a platform for opportunism, a mere vehicle to power for the few, nor a tool for personal ambition.
“A political party, in its truest form, is a living institution built on values
, guided by ideals, and accountable to the people it seeks to serve,” Aregbesola said.
, guided by ideals, and accountable to the people it seeks to serve,” Aregbesola said.He stressed that the party must be committed to the people, rooted in democratic values, rule of law, social justice, accountability, transparency, and national development.
Aregbesola cited the African National Congress (ANC) of South Africa as a model of a party that has achieved great things through its commitment to ideology, principle, and people-centered struggle.
“The ANC is not perfect, but it stands for something. It was forged in resistance, sharpened by vision, and led by men and women who believe in justice, dignity, equality, inclusivity of all interests, and true freedom,” he said.
As National Secretary, Aregbesola pledged to build a party that listens and works for the people, not only during elections, but every single day.
He outlined his vision for a party that practices internal democracy, has transparent and fair intra-party competition, and recognises the interests of all members, including young people, women, and the marginalised.
“We will model international best practices in party organisation, administration, and ethics. We will study what works from South Africa to Sweden, from Chile to Kenya, and adapt what fits our local reality,” Aregbesola said.
He emphasised that discipline, and clarity of purpose, and service to the people must define the party.
Aregbesola also stressed the need for the party to become an institution where young people, women, and the marginalised have a real voice, not symbolic inclusion.
“All special and critical interests must be recognised and allowed to have autonomous structures within the party,” he said.
“I ask for your support not just in words, but in action. Hold me accountable. Challenge me when I stray. And stand with me as we begin this journey to rebuild our party, restore its soul, and return politics to its rightful place as a service to the people,” Aregbesola said.
The appointment of Aregbesola as National Secretary marks a new chapter in the history of the ADC, and it remains to be seen how the party will implement its new vision and direction to take power from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).