Mashatile Dismisses 'Smallanyana Skeletons': Deputy President Seen as Ramaphosa's Likely Successor Amid Declaration Controversy

Deputy President Paul Mashatile

As the sun cast its glow over the parliamentary chambers in Cape Town on Thursday, Deputy President Paul Mashatile stood firm, asserting he doesn't have "smallanyana skeletons" to share with the country regarding his declaration of financial interests.

Speaking during a heated question-and-answer session in the National Council of Provinces (NCOP), Mashatile emphasized his life is transparent, stressing everybody knows where he lives.

The controversy surrounds Mashatile's failure to declare a diamond gift from Louis Liebenberg, a diamond dealer, to his wife. The Ethics Committee recommended a R10,000 fine for this omission, which Mashatile has agreed to pay, stating he'll respect the institution's decision with the amount deducted from his salary.

Mashatile defended his transparency, highlighting his declared properties are publicly recorded. He referenced a Cape Town property among three disclosed in his financial interests declaration, stressing, "Ownership of property is something that is on record. You can go to the registrar of properties, you'll find which properties I own". Specifically addressing a R28.9 million Constantia mansion, Mashatile clarified his son-in-law owns it, saying, "I live there" ¹.

As Deputy President, Mashatile is widely regarded as a frontrunner to succeed President Cyril Ramaphosa, given his experience and leadership within the African National Congress (ANC). His appointment as Deputy President in June 2024 marked a significant milestone, showcasing Ramaphosa's trust in his abilities. Acting as President in August 2023 demonstrated Mashatile's capability to lead, further solidifying his position as a potential successor.

Mashatile's extensive ANC roles, including Provincial Secretary, Deputy Provincial Chairperson, and Treasurer-General (2017-2022), have prepared him for high office. When asked if he's ready to lead the ANC, Mashatile responded unequivocally: "Yes, definitely".

Mashatile's path isn't without hurdles. Internal ANC dynamics and criticisms pose challenges. Questions about business associations and transparency in dealings like the national lottery licence tender award to Sizekhaya Holdings have drawn scrutiny.

Opposition MPs like EFF's Virgill Gericke and MK Party's Mmabatho Mokoena probed Mashatile's declaration transparency during the NCOP session. Mokoena asked how he afforded a R7.5 million Cape Town property, but NCOP chairperson Refilwe Mtsweni-Tsipane ruled this a new question, blocking Mashatile's immediate response.

Born October 21, 1961, Paul Mashatile has had a distinguished political career, serving in key roles like Minister of Arts and Culture and Gauteng Premier. His activism roots trace back to involvement with the Congress of South African Students (COSAS) and co-founding the Alexandra Youth Congress.

As South Africa watches, Mashatile's readiness to potentially take the helm is clear. Whether he'll navigate controversies to emerge as Ramaphosa's successor remains a compelling narrative in South African politics.