Citing "moral decay" within the ruling party and threats to his safety and that of his family, SA National Civic Organisation (Sanco) president Mlungisi Hlongwane has resigned from the African National Congress.

"I have resigned from my position as Executive Mayor of Sedibeng [District Municipality, in Gauteng] and as a member of the ANC," he announced in a statement on Monday.

Hlongwane, who submitted his resignations on Sunday, said violence had become institutionalised in the ANC.

"I have never ever experienced a leadership of the ANC so insecure and paranoid of their gravitas and legitimacy. While before people whispered in corners and corridors, today violence and intimidation is institutionalised inside the ANC.

"The ANC is fundamentally led... on the basis of factionalism. Today you are guaranteed never to face disciplinary action, irrespective the amount of misconduct within the ANC, if you belong to the Polokwane victors. In fact, you are likely to be promoted.

"I have observed this moral decay taking its root at a national level and in our region. I have tried to engage my comrades on the disastrous effect of the ANCYL president's behaviour and the conduct of some ANC NEC members on the elections.

"In each case when these matters are raised you are classified to be anti-Polokwane," he said.

Hlongwane said the police had told him he and his family were at risk.

"The SA Police Service in Vereeniging and intelligence officers gathered information that my personal security, together with that of my wife and family, and other municipal officials associated with me, were at risk.

"They have uncovered plans that included abduction and assassination using the services of members of the former Vaal self-defence units.

"The unfortunate situation is that all these threats are from the ANC members," Hlongwane said.

Sapa