President Jacob Zuma, on a walkabout in Katlehong, in Ekhuruleni, on the East Rand, told residents to speak out when they think the ANC is on the wrong path.
"The ANC is your party and you should tell us when you think we are not doing right things," Zuma said.
Out to garner votes ahead of next year's general election, the national and party leader emphasised the importance of keeping the ANC in power.
"There is no other party that cares about you other than the ANC.
"It is important to keep the ANC in power because others will lead you into a bush," he said.
After keeping everyone waiting for over an hour, Zuma, when he finally arrived, took a walk down Masakane Street.
Traffic was brought to a standstill and his bodyguards had a hectic time trying to shield him from the crowd, which grew with every step he took down the street.
Motorists hooted and residents cheered.
Zuma stopped randomly to greet and speak to residents on the streets.
When he walked into a tavern a young man told Zuma that he was a qualified engineer but was unemployed.
A young woman complained to Zuma about toll plazas and the ever- increasing cost of living.
A group of former members of the ANC's military wing, Umkhonto we Sizwe, protested nearby.
But a cheering and singing crowd of ANC members drowned out the disgruntled group who were demanding that they be integrated into the defence force.
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