MOTSEPE'S BID FOR ANC LEADERSHIP SPARKS INTENSE DEBATE

CAF president Patrice Motsepe.

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

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Patrice Motsepe, billionaire businessman and president of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), is being courted by senior ANC members to run for the party's top job at its 2027 elective conference.

This potential candidacy has sparked intense debate within the party, with some viewing Motsepe as a fresh face with the potential to unite the party and restore voter trust.

Motsepe's success story is undeniable. Born in Ga-Rankuwa during apartheid, he built his empire from scratch, starting with his father's spaza shop. Today, he's the founder and executive chairman of African Rainbow Minerals, with interests in mining, finance, telecommunications, and sports.

His leadership style has earned accolades globally, with awards like South Africa's Business Leader of the Year and Ernst & Young Best Entrepreneur of the Year.

The ANC's 2027 national conference is shaping up to be a pivotal moment in South African politics. With the party facing declining support and internal divisions, the next leader will play a crucial role in shaping the country's future.

Motsepe's potential entry has injected new energy into the party, but critics argue that his lack of grassroots political experience and deep ties to the business elite may not align with the broader electorate's expectations.

Despite being urged to run, Motsepe has remained noncommittal, saying he wants to focus on his business interests and contributing to South Africa's development. His family ties to President Cyril Ramaphosa, his brother-in-law, have raised eyebrows, with some questioning potential conflicts of interest.

As the drama unfolds, one thing is clear: the stakes are high, and the ANC's future hangs in the balance. Will Motsepe's business savvy and charisma be enough to revive the ANC's fortunes, or will the party's internal divisions tear it apart?