‘Verification hiccups’ delay ANC elective conference
Provisional dates for the conference have been set from January 31 to February 2, though the venue is yet to be confirmed.

POLOKWANE – The ANC’s national membership verification system has caused delays in hosting the highly anticipated tenth Peter Mokaba regional elective conference. Regional spokesperson Adolph Rapetswa told Polokwane Observer that while preparations are underway, the election process hinges on resolving glitches in the system.
Rapetswa explained that the region was prepared to implement the necessary steps to elect new leaders, but only ANC members deemed in good standing can participate in the election.
This includes having their membership requirements fully up to date. Activities such as Branch General Meetings (BGMs) to elect conference delegates and nominations for the preferred top six leadership positions have yet to commence.
Provisional dates for the conference have been set from January 31 to February 2, though the venue is yet to be confirmed. While manual verifications were previously used, Rapetswa noted that the National Executive Committee (NEC) determines the system to be used. Attempts to contact ANC spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu-Motsiri regarding the system error have not been successful.
Rapetswa, however, hinted that ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula could give the go-ahead to proceed at any time.
As the region awaits conference proceedings, party members and followers have taken to social media to express their preferences for the chairperson position.
Leading contenders include ANC Women’s League Limpopo chairperson and Capricorn District Mayor, Mamedupi Teffo, and current chairperson John Mpe, who serves as Polokwane Mayor and is seeking a third term.

Dr Metjie Makgoba, a political analyst and lecturer at the University of Limpopo, shared insights into the dynamics of the ANC leadership, saying a candidate’s success often hinges on their ability to maintain strategic alliances and support from influential members within the party.
Mpe, despite facing criticism over issues such as water shortages in his municipality, may still have the upper hand due to his experience and established networks.
“A third term would affirm his mastery of the process,” Makgoba noted, adding that his re-election depends on whether branches prioritise his leadership record over external factors.
For Teffo, being younger and female presents both challenges and opportunities.
Makgoba argued that the ANC’s male-dominated political landscape could work against her but stressed that she could leverage policies promoting women and youth leadership.
“Teffo has the chance to present herself as a fresh voice with innovative solutions. Referencing leaders like Dr Phophi Ramathuba, who have succeeded in similar contexts, could strengthen her appeal,” he suggested.
