The ANC's Limpopo Conundrum: A Party Torn Apart by Power Struggles and Allegations of Bias

Mpho Dube
Sep 5
2 min read

By Mpho Dube-Editor in Chief

The African National Congress (ANC) in Limpopo is facing an unprecedented crisis, with internal conflicts and power struggles threatening to tear the party apart.

At the center of the storm is Provincial Chairperson Stan Mathabatha's decision to step aside, citing "misconduct and lack of ANC values" in the Waterberg and Vhembe regions.

However, many within the party are questioning why Mathabatha's decision specifically targets the Waterberg and Vhembe regions, while seemingly ignoring other regions like Peter Mokaba and Mopani.

This perceived inconsistency has sparked allegations of bias and favouritism, with some speculating that Mathabatha's actions are motivated by personal interests or alliances, particularly given his close relationship with John Mpe, the ANC Peter Mokaba Region Chairperson.

The ANC Waterberg Region's endorsement of Limpopo Premier Dr. Phophi Ramathuba's bid for the Provincial Chairperson role has further complicated the party's internal dynamics. The region's chairperson, Jack Maeko, has expressed confidence in Ramathuba's leadership abilities and experience, sparking questions about Mathabatha's motives for stepping aside.

Meanwhile, the delayed release of an investigation report into disputes and irregularities in the Peter Mokaba, Vhembe, and Mopani regions has sparked questions about the party's transparency and leadership.

ANC officials are eagerly awaiting the report's release, which will provide clarity on the legitimacy of the Peter Mokaba, Vhembe, and Mopani regions.

In a crucial development, ANC officials will engage with the National Working Committee on Monday to digest the report and its recommendations. After careful consideration, ANC Secretary General Fikile Mbalula will implement the decisions made, following a meeting with the ANC Limpopo leadership. This process will determine the next steps for the party in Limpopo and potentially have far-reaching implications for the ANC's national leadership.

As the party navigates its internal conflicts, the question on everyone's mind is: will the ANC be able to resolve its differences and emerge stronger, or will the power struggles and allegations of bias tear it apart? The outcome of the National Working Committee's deliberations will be crucial in determining the future of the party in Limpopo.

The ANC's internal conflicts are not just about personalities; they are about the party's values and principles. The party's legacy as a liberation movement and its commitment to democracy and accountability are being put to the test. Can the ANC find a way to resolve its internal conflicts and emerge stronger, or will the party's divisions prove insurmountable?

The stakes are high, and the outcome will have far-reaching implications for the party's future. As the ANC grapples with its internal conflicts, one thing is certain: the party's ability to govern effectively and maintain its legitimacy will depend on its ability to resolve its differences and emerge stronger.