The battle for top ANC posts in Mpumalanga has begun

The stage is set for the battle for control of the ANC in Mpumalanga and senior members are putting their names in the hat to replace former ANC chairperson David Mabuza.

Mabuza, who is also premier, was elected as the party’s deputy president at the December national conference.

He is also expected to vacate the premiership portfolio.

The real contest is for the powerful positions of chairperson and provincial secretary, which are key in provincial politics. Last week, party activists put forward David Dube as their candidate for chairperson.

Dube shot to prominence as a campaigner for ANC president Cyril Ramaphosa, alongside veteran politician Fish Mahlalela, who is also said to be eyeing the position.

Dube and Mahlalela belong to the same faction, but one side within the camp wants Dube and another backs Mahlalela.

Dube’s supporters said he was a “humble” and “down-to-earth” leader whose PhD would put him in good stead to guide municipalities and provincial departments to deliver services.

Peter Nyoni, head of the department of co-operative governance and traditional affairs, is also vying for the post.

Dube, Mahlalela and Nyoni will be challenged by current provincial secretary Mandla Ndlovu, who also wants the chairperson position.

Provincial executive committee member and community safety MEC Pat Ngomane is the favourite to be provincial secretary.

– Eric Naki

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