Candidates standing to represent the ANC in the upcoming elections should take their election to Parliament or the legislature as a calling to serve, not as a job, party president Jacob Zuma said.

Zuma was addressing party members and the candidates at the list conference held in Esslen Park, Ekurhuleni on Saturday.

"Those who are ultimately chosen as ANC candidates must realise now that we mean business when we say we will ensure that every ANC public representative will work tirelessly to deliver services to the people of this country.

"Over the past 15 years our movement has proven beyond doubt that we are indeed capable of leading this country towards the realisation of a developmental state... the challenges we face will require men and women of courage and integrity," Zuma said.

He urged ANC members with parliamentary or legislative experience to avail themselves to assist the newly appointed candidates where necessary.

"Those among us who have gained experience must be prepared to share the lessons they have learned with others. We must turn knowledge into empowerment and not power," he said.

Working together, Zuma said, will ensure that the party "puts in place a governing platform that will advance the transformation of our country toward a better life for all".

"...Action speaks louder than words. We have to roll up our sleeves and do the work and not just be able to talk about how the work will be done," he said.

This, Zuma said, will ensure that the party implements plans for its five priorities enshrined in the manifesto such as decent work, education, health, rural development and the fight against crime.

"For this reason, our process has been rigorous so that we choose the best among ourselves to deliver on our promises. We will come down hard on corruption in the civil service and in all other spheres of government. We ask only that if you are elected, you commit to nothing more than serving the people," he said.

Fifty percent of those who made the final cut on Saturday are women.

The list, which was finalised on Saturday, will only be made public once the ANC's national executive committee has scrutinised it.

Party spokesman Carl Niehaus said: "Subject to processing by the national list committee, in line with ANC list guidelines, the list is to be referred to the organisation's NEC and later the Independent Electoral Commission to ensure compliance."