MOTSEPE'S DENIAL SAVES PM27 CAMPAIGN, INSIDERS REVEAL

Dr Patrice Motsepe is still touted by his supporter to succeed President Cyril Ramaphosa.

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

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Patrice Motsepe's firm denial of presidential ambitions has been revealed as a strategic move to protect the PM27 campaign, according to insiders.

A statement from the Office of the National Convener of PM27 says Motsepe's response was necessary to avoid disciplinary action and potential termination of membership.

"The response by Dr Patrice Motsepe was correct. He had to deny to save our PM27 campaign," the statement reads. "The existence of PM27 is annoying and destructive in some circles and lobby groups, therefore the next step which was going happen would be execution of disciplinary action and termination of membership."

The statement accuses ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula of attempting to undermine the PM27 campaign, saying his letters were leaked to the media instead of being delivered to PM27 office bearers.

"Those this is observed by PM27 National Interim Structure, we've decided to conform to the instruction because we are disciplined members of the ANC and we don't operate outside the movement and its constitution," the statement says.

The PM27 campaign has vowed to continue, saying "the journey is still on" and urging supporters to focus on the local government elections.

"Aluta Continua. #Siyavumela. No retreat, no surrender. PM27 for President," the statement concludes.