DR PHOPHI RAMATHUBA MAKES HISTORY AS FIRST WOMAN PREMIER AND PROVINCIAL CHAIRPERSON OF ANC LIMPOPO

Limpopo first female Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba has made history as the first woman to be elected as Provincial Chairperson of the party.

By Mpho Dube, Editor-in-Chief, The Azanian

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In a groundbreaking moment for the ANC in Limpopo, Dr Phophi Ramathuba has made history as the first woman to be elected as Provincial Chairperson of the party.

The announcement was made at the ANC Limpopo Provincial Conference, where Limpopo first female Premier Dr Ramathuba was elected unopposed as a member of the Unity Slate.

The victory comes after rival factions, including the "Alliance of the Wounded", attempted to halt the conference through frivolous court interdicts, which were dismissed by the Polokwane High Court.

The Unity Slate, orchestrated by Tala Mathope, ANC Sekhukhune Regional Secretary, had been pushing for a united front to take the party into the 2026 local elections.

Dr Ramathuba's election is a significant milestone for the party and for women in leadership positions. She has been a trailblazer in the party, and her victory is a testament to her hard work and dedication.

The conference, which took place from March 27-29, 2026, saw the election of Dr Ramathuba as Provincial Chairperson, John Mpe as Deputy Provincial Chairperson, Ruben Madadzhe as Provincial Secretary, Pule Shayi as Deputy Secretary, and Eddie Maila as Provincial Treasurer.

The Unity Slate's victory is seen as a significant boost for the ANC in Limpopo, with the party looking to maintain its stronghold in the province ahead of the local elections.

The slate's victory is also seen as a testament to the party's commitment to democracy and the rule of law, despite attempts to undermine the process.