Mbalula’s Motsepe Apology Sparks Talk of ‘Burnt Bridges’ in ANC – A Closer Look

ANC Secretary General Fikile Mbalula

Mpho Dube, Editor in Chief, The Azanian

ANC Secretary‑General Fikile Mbalula publicly apologised to mining billionaire Patrice Motsepe after months of speculation that his comments about Motsepe’s possible ANC presidential bid were “out of line.”

Speaking at the South African National Editors Forum fundraising dinner in Houghton, Mbalula said: “When I spoke about Patrice Motse  people said I was fighting with him… No, I’m not fighting with him. If I spoke badly, I withdraw those words because Motsepe’s people fought with me, telling me to stop fighting Motsepe. I was relaying NEC’s decision that we must not speak about succession battles because we are in trouble. We must fight and win the elections, then we can speak about it.”

Patrice Motsepe, President Cyril Ramaphosa’s brother‑in‑law, used the same event to reiterate his long‑standing stance: “I am not mad,” he said, adding that his focus remains on business, philanthropy and a united South Africa, not political office.

ANC sources, speaking on condition of anonymity, claim Mbalula’s outspoken style has left a trail of damaged relationships. “He has burnt so many bridges with his attitude and utterances,” one senior member said. “His tendency to attack anyone who disagrees makes him increasingly unpopular inside the party.”

Mbalula’s previous attacks on supporters of Deputy President Paul Mashatile, who are pushing for Mashatile to succeed Ramaphosa. Mbalula allegedly accused Mashatile’s camp of “trying to hijack the succession agenda” and even referenced a car‑shooting incident linked to Mashatile’s security detail, a claim that remains unverified.

Insiders allege that Mbalula failed to discipline his own supporters who wanted him to run for president, instead turning his fire on Mashatile and Motsepe factions. Some say he is now considering backing Mashatile in exchange for a deputy‑president slot, as rank‑and‑file members grow “gatvol” with his “narcissistic, bullying, pompous” conduct. To add insult to the injury, internal critics say Mbalula's “motormouth” style has already cost him support.

A faction within the ANC Youth League defended Mbalula, stating his “passionate” approach is what the movement needs to “challenge the status quo.” They argue his apology shows willingness to reconcile.

Conversely, a coalition of provincial leaders has called for greater accountability, citing a pattern of “disorderly” public statements that undermine party unity.

The fallout from Mbalula’s Motsepe apology may signal a broader realignment ahead of the ANC’s upcoming elective conference. Whether Mbalula can rebuild his credibility or will remain a polarising figure remains to be seen.