ANC probes after Greater Johannesburg conference ballot boxes allegedly found in Pretoria home

The African National Congress opened an investigation after ballot boxes from its Greater Johannesburg Regional Conference found inside a private house in Pretoria.

Party officials confirmed the discovery on Tuesday after members reported the presence of the boxes at the property. The boxes relate to the recent regional conference that elected new leadership in Johannesburg.

Sources said senior leaders moved quickly to secure the materials and notify provincial and national structures. The President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to receive a detailed report on the circumstances surrounding the find.

ANC representatives said the organisation treats the matter seriously because it concerns internal election material. They said investigators will determine whether the boxes are authentic and whether they used during the voting process.

“The ANC must protect the credibility of its internal democratic systems,” a party source said. “Any handling of ballot material outside official procedures raises serious questions.”

The Greater Johannesburg Regional Conference has faced disputes since it concluded. Some members previously challenged the outcome and raised concerns about voting arrangements and accreditation. The discovery of the boxes has intensified debate within the region.

Police have taken custody of the boxes for examination. Officers will trace their origin and check for signs of interference. At this stage, no arrests have been made and no formal charges have been announced.

Political analysts say the incident could deepen divisions inside the party ahead of important organisational activities. They warn that unresolved leadership disputes may affect unity and public confidence in the movement.
Opposition parties reacted with concern and called for transparency. They urged authorities to conduct an independent investigation and release the findings once the process is complete.

Residents in the Pretoria area where the boxes found expressed surprise. Some said they unaware that political material being stored at the house.

The ANC urged members and the public to avoid speculation while the investigation continues. Officials said verified information should be shared and that the party will communicate once it receives results.

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