ANC Vhembe regional conference set for leadership contest
The ANC Vhembe regional conference will see intense leadership battles as factions vie for top positions.
LIMPOPO – The long-awaited ANC regional conference in Vhembe, initially scheduled for December, will now take place on March 8 and 9.
As the second-largest region in Limpopo, the outcomes of this conference are pivotal in shaping the province’s political landscape.
Two strong factions are vying for control, with notable figures lobbying for top leadership positions. The incumbent regional chairperson, Tshitereke Matibe, who also serves as MEC for Economic Development, Environment, and Tourism (Ledet), faces stiff competition from Simon Mavikane. However, the fiercest contest is expected to centre on the key secretariat position, with candidates yet to be finalised as nominations at the branch level continue.
Matibe’s faction reportedly enjoys the backing of the Premier, Dr Phophi Ramathuba and ANC provincial secretary Vhamusanda Vho Reuben Madadzhe while Mavikane’s camp is supported by Florence Radzilani, MEC for Social Development and deputy chairperson of the ANC in Limpopo.
Matibe, a veteran leader and longest-serving regional chairperson, is believed to have overwhelming support from many branches.
The anticipated candidates from each camp are as follows:
Matibe camp
Chairperson: Tshitereke Matibe.
Deputy chairperson: Freda Nkondo (Vhembe Mayor).
Secretary: Miyelani Chauke.
Deputy secretary: Dorcus Mboyi (Louis Trichardt Mayor).
Treasurer: Fistos Mafela (chief whip of Musina).
Mavikane camp
Chairperson: Simon Mavikane.
Deputy chairperson: Samuel Munyai.
Secretary: Rudzani Ludere.
Deputy secretary: Livhuwani Ligaraba.
Treasurer: Mihloti Muhlophe.
With branch audits and nominations still in progress, ANC members in the region are eager to see how the leadership race unfolds. “It is through the nominations that we can tell who will contest for which positions. We are finalising the audit, which will determine the candidates,” said an ANC member.
