The impact of wealth on leadership dynamics within the ANC

Political analysts have cautioned that financial power, rather than political credentials, is increasingly shaping leadership positions within the top echelons of the African National Congress (ANC).

Their comments arise during ongoing provincial elective conferences that will significantly influence the party's direction in the lead-up to the 56th national elective congress, scheduled for December 2027.

Independent political analyst Joe Mhlanga argued that this party's reliance on wealth undermines its integrity and ability to genuinely serve the people. 

“Voters are becoming more aware of how money influences internal party processes,” he said. 

“In the ANC, it’s no longer about qualities of leadership or service records — it’s about who can mobilise the most resources.”

Mhlanga pointed to the controversial CR17 campaign that propelled Cyril Ramaphosa to the ANC leadership and South Africa’s presidency. 

The campaign reportedly raised over R2 billion, which was used to garner internal support within the party and outside backing for Ramaphosa.

“To win a conference, history reminds us that one needs to raise at least R2 billion,” Mhlanga added. “Money has become the real currency of power in the ANC.”

Patrice Motsepe’s Quiet Campaign

Amid this backdrop, whispers are growing that Patrice Motsepe, the billionaire businessman and president of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), is quietly mobilising support for a possible bid for the ANC presidency.

Although he has not publicly declared his intentions, sources suggest that support is building behind the scenes. When approached by IOL, Motsepe declined to comment.

A close associate involved in what is being dubbed the “M27” campaign told IOL that Motsepe “will only engage publicly after the ANC’s Bilateral General Meeting (BGM) has taken place.” The source added, “For now, he’s observing quietly and waiting for the right moment to speak.”

Party Leaders Call for Silence

Meanwhile, ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula has issued a firm directive, urging party leaders not to engage in public succession debates. 

“We want to avoid factions and division,” Mbalula said recently at Luthuli House. 

“Let’s focus on uniting the party and preparing for the conference without unnecessary public speculation.”

Despite this, speculation about potential candidates continues to swirl, with names like Deputy President Paul Mashatile, Mbalula himself, and Police Minister Bheki Cele mentioned as possible contenders.

Implications for the ANC

Mhlanga warns that the party risks further voter erosion and declining credibility unless it confronts its dependence on money and internal corruption.

“The ANC must return to traditional politics, honest debate, policy focus, and service delivery,” he urged. “Otherwise, the cycle of money-driven leadership will persist, and the party’s relevance will continue to decline.”

Earlier this year, Mbalula restructured the Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal provincial structures to regain ground. 

He immediately reshuffled subcommittees and provincial deployees, citing the need to reinforce party committees and implement the principle of rotation.

Analysts’ View on New Provincial Task Teams

Political analysts have weighed in on these developments. They note that the newly appointed Provincial Task Teams (PTTs) in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal will face significant challenges in restoring support unless they address internal governance issues and factional conflicts.

Dr Metji Makgoba, a senior lecturer at the University of Limpopo, commented on the ANC’s efforts in these provinces. 

“The decline of the ANC in Gauteng and KZN stems from internal leadership conflicts, the rise of opposition parties, and shifting voter priorities,” he said.

In Gauteng, Makgoba noted, the focus has shifted from party loyalty to effective governance and service delivery. 

“Voters now demand stability and tangible results, but successive governments have struggled to maintain governance continuity, which weakens public trust.”

In KwaZulu-Natal, the situation is further complicated by the influence of former President Jacob Zuma and the emergence of new political formations like uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) party.

 “Zuma’s charisma, cultural resonance, and deep ties to traditional structures have made it difficult for the ANC to reclaim lost ground,” Makgoba explained.

He also highlighted ongoing tensions within the party, particularly between traditional councils and provincial leaders, which continue to undermine stability and progress.

thabo.makwakwa@inl.co.za

IOL Politics