With the 2014 presidential elections approaching, the National Development Plan (NDP) could take a backseat during the ANC’s election campaign.

Control Risks sub-Saharan Africa analyst Simiso Velempini says the NDP has been a second consideration in the ANC’s election manifesto. She argues that the document does not serve the ANC’s immediate short-term political considerations.

“To ensure the tripartite alliance mobilises support around the ruling party ahead of elections, the ANC cannot lead with the NDP,” Velempini said at the 2014 release of the RiskMap in Sandton on Monday.  According to Velempini, the South African Communist Party and the Cosatu ‒ the ANC’s alliance partners ‒ were reportedly against some aspects of the NDP.

Meanwhile National Planning Minister Trevor Manuel argues that it is not only up to government to meet the country’s needs, but that an active citizenry is vital for South Africa is to meet the NDP goals.

Speaking at Stellenbosch University last week, Manuel said the NDP is not only a plan for government but a plan for everyone in South Africa and that ordinary South Africans have an important role to play in making the NDP a reality.