26/08/2026
ARRC launches as new political party calling for a “New Dispensation” in South Africa
A new political party, the African Royal Rainbow Congress (ARRC), has emerged on South Africa’s political landscape, positioning itself as a new political alternative focused on service, accountability and economic opportunity.
Established in 2025, ARRC says it was founded on the belief that politics should put ordinary South Africans first and restore public confidence in government.
The party says it wants to address some of the country’s most pressing challenges, including unemployment, the rising cost of living, crime, failing infrastructure, struggling municipalities, limited opportunities for young people and corruption.
ARRC is particularly positioning itself as a party led by a new generation of political leaders, arguing that young South Africans should not only be mobilised during elections but should have a meaningful role in decision-making, government and the economy.
The party’s founding vision centres on six key priorities:
• Jobs and economic growth
• Functional municipalities
• Safe communities
• Youth and skills development
• Honest and accountable government
• Service-driven leadership
According to ARRC, its political philosophy is built around a simple principle: “The people come first.”
The party says it wants to move beyond what it describes as the politics of blame and towards a politics focused on practical solutions and measurable improvements in people’s lives.
Who leads ARRC?
ARRC was founded by Thabiso Mabetwa, who serves as the party’s President.
Mabetwa and members of the founding leadership have previous political experience, including involvement with the Congress of the People (COPE) under the late Mosiuoa Lekota, as well as SARA.
The party says this experience has shaped its understanding of South Africa’s democratic landscape and strengthened its belief that the country needs a renewed approach to leadership and governance.
ARRC describes its emergence as more than the creation of another political organisation, calling it a push for a “New Dispensation” in which government is expected to listen, serve and remain accountable to citizens.
The party now says it is focused on building its organisation from the ground up and taking its message directly to South Africans.
ARRC’s message is clear: a new political generation, a new political culture and a South Africa where government works for the people.
