The ANC clarified the absence of President Thabo Mbeki and a close ally, Joel Netshitenze, from Monday's National Executive Committee meeting, the SABC reported on Tuesday.

ANC spokesman Tiyani Rikhotso said both men excused themselves from the meeting a week ago, citing prior engagements.

Monday's NEC meeting was the first since the new executive was elected at the ANC's national conference in Polokwane last month. The new NEC is dominated by supporters of new party president Jacob Zuma.

The ANC's National Executive Committee was expected to announce the list of members of the party's new National Working Committee (NWC) on Tuesday, the report said.

The 28 NWC members were responsible for the day to day running of the organisation. The NEC would also announce the outcome of other discussions at its key meeting.

Among the other issues discussed, were the party's traditional January 8 statement and the charges being brought by the National Prosecuting Authority against Zuma. Zuma, as party president, was expected to deliver the annual January 8 statement in Atteridgeville in Tshwane on Saturday.