JOHN MPE'S WISE CHOICE: UNITY OVER SELFISHNESS

Newly elected ANC Limpopo Deputy Chairperson Mpe opted to take a backseat and support Dr Phophi Ramathuba's bid for Provincial Chairperson, ensuring a smooth transition and a united front.

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

Truth. Fearless. Unfiltered.

John Mpe's election as Deputy Chairperson of the ANC in Limpopo is a testament to his exceptional leadership skills and commitment to the party's values.

In a time when self-interest and factionalism threatened to tear the party apart, Mpe chose unity, recognizing that the ANC's strength lies in its collective efforts.

Mpe's decision to join the Unity Slate, orchestrated by Tala Mathope, ANC Sekhukhune Regional Secretary, was a bold statement of his commitment to the party's unity and progress.

Despite being a contender for the top position, Mpe opted to take a backseat and support Dr Phophi Ramathuba's bid for Provincial Chairperson, ensuring a smooth transition and a united front.

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.

Mpe's leadership and strategic thinking were instrumental in navigating the party through these challenges, ensuring that the conference proceeded smoothly and democratically.

Mpe's election is a significant milestone for the ANC in Limpopo, and his leadership will be instrumental in taking the party to greater heights. He has demonstrated exceptional ability to work collaboratively and build consensus, skills that will serve him well in his new role.

"Comrade John Mpe is a true leader who puts the party first," said an ANC delegate. "His commitment to unity and collective progress is unwavering, and I have no doubt that he will be a rock-solid Deputy Chairperson for the ANC in Limpopo."

The conference, which took place from March 27-29, 2026, saw the election of Dr Phophi 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.

As Comrade Nelson Mandela said, "The ANC is a broad church, and there is room for all of us." Mpe's leadership is a step towards healing the party's internal divisions and moving forward united. His commitment to unity and collective progress is a beacon of hope for the ANC in Limpopo, and his leadership will be crucial in taking the party to greater heights.

Mpe's election is also a testament to the ANC's commitment to gender equality and inclusivity, with Dr Phophi Ramathuba making history as the first woman Provincial Chairperson of the party.

The Unity Slate's victory is a significant milestone for the ANC in Limpopo, and Mpe's leadership will be instrumental in ensuring that the party continues to grow from strength to strength.