The ANC has slammed campaigning for leadership positions as Dr. Patrice Motsepe is rumoured to be eyeing the party's presidency.
Image: Ayanda Ndamane/ Independent Newspapers
The ANC has reiterated its ban on campaigning for leadership positions ahead of the 2027 national conference as the move to have billionaire businessman Dr. Patrice Motsepe to replace his brother-in-law President Cyril Ramaphosa, gains momentum.
In a statement on Monday, the ANC said its National Executive Committee (NEC) declared that no leadership campaigns are permitted ahead of the 2027 National Conference and made it clear that those defying the directive will face consequences.
“The NEC has taken a clear and principled decision that no leadership campaigns should be undertaken,” the party said, stressing that premature mobilisation “stands in direct contradiction” to its collective resolution.
But campaigners for Motsepe are confident of his victory.
“At present, our primary focus is on ensuring a decisive ANC victory in the upcoming local government elections. We believe that strong, effective local government is the foundation of service delivery and the broader renewal of our movement.
"Our campaign operation is currently dedicated to supporting efforts that consolidate the ANC’s grassroots presence and electoral strength across the country,” one of Motsepe’s chief campaigners, Ishmael Mnisi said.
“In terms of organisation, the PM27 Savumelana Campaign has established a 24-member National Coordination Structure and leadership, led by Comrade Thulani Ngesi as National Convenor and Ayanda Ngangelizwe as Secretary. We have also formed nine provincial coordination teams to ensure engagement and mobilisation in all provinces,” Mnisi explained.
He added: “We are actively engaging ANC branches and structures nationwide, with a particular focus on building broad-based support at the grassroots level. Our campaign is witnessing encouraging support from branches in both urban and rural areas, and our provincial teams are working closely with regional and local ANC leaders to deepen our reach”.
According to Mnisi, the PM27 Savumelana Campaign is founded on the principles of unity, ethical leadership, renewal, and the advancement of socio-economic transformation.
“We believe that Dr. Patrice Motsepe, given his proven track record in business, philanthropy, and nation-building, embodies these values and is well positioned to lead the ANC into a new era of integrity and progress.
Mnisi said it was important to note that, in line with ANC processes and protocols, the PM27 Campaign will formally rally behind Motsepe’s candidacy for the presidency of the ANC once the national executive committee officially opens nominations for the 2027 national conference.
“At that time, we will also be in a position to openly campaign for other top five officials and members of the ANC national executive committee. Until then, our public activities are focused on strengthening the ANC’s local government performance and building unity within the movement,” he said.
Mnisi added that Motsepe appreciated the growing support from a diverse cross-section of ANC members and leaders who are committed his vision for renewal and ethical leadership.
“We remain committed to transparency and will continue to keep the public and media updated as the campaign progresses,” the campaign stated
ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula has stated that must be no succession discussions in the party until after this year's local government elections.