"THE BATTLE FOR LIMPOPO'S SOUL: MPE AND RAMATHUBA CLASH IN A HEATED CONTEST FOR PROVINCIAL CHAIRPERSON"

ANC Capricorn Region Chairpeson and Polokwane Executive Mayor John Makoro Mpe and Limpopo first female Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba both ready to rumble and sting like bees for ANC Provincial Chairperson position.

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

Truth. Fearless. Unfiltered.

Johannesburg — The contest for the ANC Limpopo Provincial Chairperson position is heating up, with John Makoro Mpe and Dr Phophi Ramathuba going head-to-head in a battle that promises to be a real showdown.

Mpe, a seasoned politician with a wealth of experience, is facing off against Ramathuba, the incumbent Premier. However, Ramathuba is facing criticism for allegedly stunting the growth of her cabinet members, with sources accusing her of being the "MEC of everything" and not allowing others to flourish.

Critics say she's overstepping her boundaries, taking on multiple roles and not respecting the leadership of the ANC in the province.

"She's everywhere, from sports to agriculture, and transport," said a source. "She doesn't give others a chance to shine. It's as if she's trying to prove a point, but in the process, she's suffocating the growth of others."

Additionally, Ramathuba's supporters in Waterberg have pronounced their support for her, but other regions, including Sekhukhune, are keeping their cards close to their chest. Capricorn Region, on the other hand, is solidly behind Mpe, its chairperson. Mpe's supporters praise his grassroots mobilisation skills and leadership abilities, citing his three terms as Capricorn Region ANC chairperson and former mayor of the region.

"Mpe is more senior to Ramathuba in terms of ANC experience," said a veteran politician. "He's got a wealth of knowledge and has been tested in various leadership roles. He's the kind of leader who listens to the people and gets things done."

But Ramathuba's camp is fighting back, highlighting her achievements as Premier and her commitment to delivering services to Limpopo's communities. They argue that Mpe's experience, while valuable, doesn't necessarily translate to the top job.

As the battle intensizes, both camps are digging in, with allegations flying thick and fast. Mpe's team accuses Ramathuba of being out of touch with grassroots realities, while Ramathuba's supporters question Mpe's ability to unite the party.

The outcome is far from certain, with the score currently one-one Capricorn backing Mpe, and Waterberg supporting Ramathuba, but with divisions in the region. Vhembe and Mopani regions are also yet to pronounce their support, adding to the uncertainty.

The stakes are high, with the winner set to shape the ANC's direction in Limpopo for the next five years. As the province's communities watch with bated breath, one thing is clear — only one of these leaders will emerge victorious.

The Azanian will be watching this space closely, as these two leaders clash in a battle that will shape Limpopo's future. Want to know more about the candidates' platforms or the implications of the provincial conference on local politics?