The African National Congress (ANC) has delayed the start of its nomination processes for ANC leadership so that membership figures can be audited.

The party was due to begin branch meetings on Wednesday, where ANC branches could nominate their preferred candidates for the party's top leadership as well as the national executive committee at the December conference.

But the deadline for the renewal of ANC branch membership was extended, resulting in a delay.

ANC spokesperson Pule Mabe said on Wednesday: "We are expected to finalise the audit process this week. The treasurer general will receive the report by Friday. The report will then serve before the special NEC on Sunday. A special NEC must adopt the final audited membership. When this is done, it constitutes credentials of the national conference."