While deputy president Paul Mashatile and ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula remain the most frequently mentioned contenders, the SRF poll has delivered a shock front-runner, businessman and soccer boss, Patrice Motsepe.
Image: Ayanda Ndamane/ Independent Newspapers
African National Congress (ANC) has issued a stern warning to its members regarding their support for billionaire businessman Patrice Motsepe amid the emergence of a campaign dubbed ‘PM27’.
The party has vowed to implement disciplinary action against any individuals pushing for Motsepe's candidacy for the upcoming presidency of the ANC.
In a statement, according to the ANC, the 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.
The warning follows reports of coordinated lobbying in Gauteng, Limpopo, the Eastern Cape (EC) and KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) — the four provinces widely regarded as decisive battlegrounds in ANC presidential races.
The emergence of “PM27” has intensified already simmering succession tensions as President Cyril Ramaphosa approaches the twilight of his leadership.
The ANC insisted its focus must remain on the upcoming local government elections, governance failures and rebuilding voter trust after a bruising electoral cycle.
“Our structures, deployees and members are expected to direct all energy and resources toward strengthening governance and improving service delivery,” the party said.
Behind the scenes, however, succession manoeuvres are accelerating.
Deputy President Paul Mashatile, National Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza, and secretary-general, Fikile Mbalula, are all being touted as potential contenders.
IOL understands that Mashatile will have solid backing in Gauteng and parts of Limpopo, while Mbalula has strengthened ties with Eastern Cape power broker Oscar Mabuyane.
Against that backdrop, the Motsepe-linked campaign, whether formally endorsed or not, has rattled Luthuli House.
The ANC said parallel campaigns were “divisive” and risk derailing the organisation from its historic mission.
“Appropriate steps will be taken to ensure adherence to the decisions of the NEC,” it warned, invoking the party’s constitution and century-old traditions.
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