Limpopo ANCWL's Dirty Secret: Factionalism and Self-Preservation Trump Women's Empowerment

ANCWL Provincial Chairperson Mamedupi Teffo, Limpopo Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba and ANCWL Provincial Secretary Tebogo Mamorobela.

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

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The African National Congress Women's League (ANCWL) in Limpopo is reeling from a scandal that has exposed the depths of factionalism and self-preservation within the party.

The silence from Provincial Chairperson Mamedupi Teffo and Provincial Secretary Tebogo Mamorobela has been deafening, as allegations swirl that they prioritized saving their own political careers over the interests of the party and its women members.

The ANC Sekhukhune Regional Chairperson,Minah Bahula, a strong and capable leader, was widely tipped to be part of the ANC Limpopo top five officials, potentially vying for the positions of Provincial Deputy Secretary or Provincial Treasurer.

However, Teffo and Mamorubela allegedly had other plans, choosing to protect their ally, Dr. Phophi Ramathuba, at all costs. The result is that Ramathuba is poised to emerge as the sole female leader, with many women and men within the ANC ranks feeling betrayed.

"It's a clear case of factionalism and self-preservation," said a disgruntled ANC member. "They didn't think of the ANCWL, they didn't think of the women, they only thought of protecting their own interests and Ramathuba's. Cde Minah Bahula was the best candidate for the position, but they shut her out because she's not part of their clique."

Some women within the party suggest that Minah Bahula was not properly persuaded to throw her hat into the ring, and that she was effectively sidelined by Teffo and Mamorobela. "She was not invited to the dinner table, so she didn't see the need to invite herself," said a source close to Bahula. "She's happy serving as regional chairperson, but it's clear she was marginalized by the provincial leadership."

The move has angered many within the party, who see it as a betrayal of the ANC's values and principles. "They're more concerned with maintaining power than genuinely serving the people," said another ANC member. "It's a shame, because it's not just about Ramathuba, it's about the future of the party and the women of Limpopo. Cde Minah Bahula would have brought a fresh perspective and strong leadership, but Teffo and Mamorubela chose to ignore her potential."

As The Azanian has reported, the ANCWL's problems are not new, but the current crisis demands urgent attention. The party's leadership must take a step back and reflect on its priorities. Is it about winning positions or serving the people? The rank and file are watching, and the clock is ticking.

In a shocking twist, insiders reveal that Ramathuba actually needed another woman to assist her against the male ANC top officials in Limpopo, but Teffo and Mamorobela's factionalism has denied her that opportunity. "It's a classic case of eating your own," said a source. "They're so focused on protecting their own interests, they've forgotten about the bigger picture. Cde Minah Bahula would have been the perfect partner for Ramathuba, but now it's too late."

The Azanian_ will continue to follow this story closely, providing updates and analysis on the ANCWL's internal struggles and their implications for South African politics.