Stan Mathabatha Step-aside as ANC Limpopo Provincial Chairperson Amidst Allegations of Misconduct

Stan Mathabatha

Stan Mathabatha has step-aside as the ANC Provincial Chairperson in Limpopo with immediate effect, citing his discontent with the serious discourse within the ANC.

In a letter dated September 1, 2025, addressed to ANC National Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula, Mathabatha expressed his concerns about misconduct and lack of ANC values within the organization, particularly regarding the conferences in the Vhembe and Waterberg regions.

Mathabatha stated that his decision to step-aside is motivated by his desire to uphold his reputation and integrity. He emphasized that he cannot stand idly by while unethical and un-ANC tendencies occur under his leadership. Despite stepping aside, Mathabatha remains available to discuss the matter further with the National Office Bearers of the ANC and participate in interviews.

ANC spokesperson Jimmy Machaka confirmed awareness of Mathabatha's step-aside letter, which is circulating on social media. However, the party is currently unable to confirm or deny the letter's authenticity and will reserve comment until the leadership verifies its correctness.

"We are unable at this stage to confirm or deny the correctness of the letter, and therefore we will not comment as yet," Machaka said.

The ANC Limpopo is awaiting a decision from the NEC, as the investigating team has concluded its work. The party will discuss matters arising from the deployees' report for the Waterberg regional conference, which is in its final leg and expected to conclude on Tuesday.

Mathabatha's step-aside may have significant implications for the ANC in Limpopo, particularly given his influential role in the province. As a key figure in the ANC, his departure could lead to shifts in power dynamics and potentially impact the party's performance in the region.

Meanwhile, ANC is facing a severe crisis in Limpopo, with the Peter Mokaba region at the center of the storm.

ANC Secretary-General Mbalula's leadership has been called into question, with many doubting his ability to resolve the conflict.

Critics argue that Mbalula is prioritizing his own interests over the needs of the party, exacerbating the crisis and undermining the party's credibility.

Despite a two-week deadline to release the investigation report, Mbalula has failed to do so, sparking concerns that he is deliberately delaying the process.

It's been two months since the deadline, and the report remains under wraps, fueling speculation about Mbalula's motives.

When Mbalula cancelled the Peter Mokaba Memorial Lecture, many thought he might be taking steps to address the crisis. However, his actions have fallen short of expectations.

During a recent ANC media briefing, Mbalula's responses to questions about the conferences in Peter Mokaba, Vhembe, and Mopani regions were evasive and lacking in substance.

The crisis, with Mbalula's leadership coming under intense scrutiny. The ANC's problems in the province are multifaceted, with regional conferences marred by allegations of irregularities and disputes. Mbalula's inability to address these issues has exacerbated the crisis, leaving many to wonder about the party's future in the province.

The demands from discontented ANC members and allies of Mamedupi Teffo are clear: set aside the decisions and resolutions from the 10th Peter Mokaba Regional Conference, dissolve the elected REC, and appoint a Conference Preparatory Committee to reconvene a properly constituted conference.

These demands are necessary to restore the party's credibility and legitimacy.

Mbalula's failure to release the investigation report has raised questions about his ability to lead the party effectively.

His leadership has been criticized for being indecisive and ineffective in addressing the crisis. The ANC Veterans League in Limpopo has demanded justice for the marginalized and called for decisive action to address the crisis.

This will also assist ensure the ANC's continued relevance and effectiveness. The ANC's ability to address internal conflicts and controversies will be crucial in maintaining its image and credibility.