Succession Battle Heats Up in Limpopo ANC

By Mpho Dube-The Editor in Chief

The Limpopo African National Congress (ANC) is gearing up for a crucial provincial conference, and the succession battle for the top spot is intensifying.

With the current term ending in June next year, coinciding with local elections, the stakes are high. Three key contenders have emerged: Premier Phophi Ramathuba, Polokwane Municipality Mayor John Mpe, and Social Development MEC Florence Radzilani, who is also the ANC Deputy Provincial Chairperson.

The ANC in Limpopo is facing significant challenges, including internal divisions and a decline in popularity. The party's performance in the previous election was a wake-up call, with the ANC getting 74% of the votes, but still losing its majority status nationally due to poor performance in other provinces. The Limpopo ANC's decision to hold an early provincial conference is seen as an attempt to rejuvenate the party and address its internal problems.

Premier Phophi Ramathuba is one of the front-runners in the succession battle. As the first female Premier of Limpopo, Ramathuba's candidacy has sparked debate. Some argue that her leadership style, criticized for being overly controlling, might hinder the independence of MECs.

However, others see her as a strong administrator who gets things done. Opposition parties have also raised concerns about tribalism and her management of the health department during her tenure as the former MEC of Health.

John Mpe, the Polokwane Municipality Mayor, is another contender. Mpe's recent allegations of corruption and nepotism have put him on the defensive. Despite vehemently denying these claims, the controversy might impact his chances.

Additionally, Mpe has faced criticism over allegations that the municipality has been favoring Zimbabwean nationals, with some even labeling Polokwane "Zimbabwe City" due to the perceived favoritism. His emergence as Chairperson of the ANC Peter Mokaba Region, which hasn't been endorsed by the National Executive Committee, adds to the uncertainty.

Florence Radzilani, the Social Development MEC and ANC Deputy Provincial Chairperson, is also in the running. Radzilani's association with the VBS scandal continues to raise eyebrows despite being defended by the ANC integrity committee. Nevertheless, her supporters argue that she has demonstrated resilience and remains a popular figure in the ANC, particularly in the Vhembe region. The fact that she was never charged following the scandal might work in her favor.

The ANC's provincial secretary position is also up for grabs, with Tala Mathope seen as a shoo-in. Mathope's leadership skills and understanding of political dynamics make him an attractive candidate.On the other hand, Reuben Madadzhe's leadership has been criticized, with calls for him to step down due to his office's failure to deliver in key regions, including the ANC Peter Mokaba, Vhembe, and Mopani Regions, which are still not endorsed by the ANC.

The ANC Veterans League has also expressed discontentment with Madadzhe's leadership, stating that he is not equal to the task and calling for him to relinquish power. Despite this, Madadzhe's allies are pushing for a second term.

The Limpopo ANC faces significant challenges, including internal divisions, corruption allegations, and a decline in popularity. The party's ability to address these issues will determine its success in the upcoming local elections. The ANC's provincial conference will be a crucial test of the party's strength and unity.

As the succession battle intensifies, the ANC in Limpopo will be watching closely. The party's future hangs in the balance, and the decisions made in the coming months will shape its trajectory. Will the ANC be able to rejuvenate itself and address its internal problems, or will the party continue to struggle? Only time will tell.

The outcome of the provincial conference will have far-reaching implications for the party's future and its ability to serve the people of Limpopo. With the stakes high and the contenders ready, the Limpopo ANC is set for a crucial moment in its history. The party's ability to navigate its internal challenges and emerge stronger will be a testament to its resilience and commitment to its values.