Limpopo, the ANC’s largest support base province, is bracing for a series of pivotal regional elective conferences that are expected to shape the future of the party in both the province and the country. The conferences, scheduled to take place in the coming weeks, will feature intense contests for top leadership positions across four of the province’s five regions: Norman Mashabane, Vhembe, Sekhukhune, and Peter Mokaba. These regions have historically been influential in the rise of President Cyril Ramaphosa, and they are now poised to play a central role in determining the province’s political direction in the lead-up to the 2027 national conference.
According to ANC provincial secretary Reuben Madadzhe, these four regions are solidly within the party’s grasp, with the ANC ready to engage in what promises to be a highly competitive process. The regional conferences will determine key leadership positions such as regional chair, deputy chair, secretary, deputy secretary, and treasurer—each of which will help shape the political landscape of Limpopo for years to come.
Limpopo has long been a stronghold for the ANC, consistently producing significant support during national elections. This makes the regional conferences not just a local affair but a potential stepping stone for those with ambitions to lead the country in the future. According to sources within the party, the outcome of these conferences could be a barometer for where the political winds will blow when the ANC begins the search for President Ramaphosa’s successor ahead of the 2027 national conference. In a province that wields so much influence, the contests for leadership positions will undoubtedly have far-reaching consequences.
Norman Mashabane, the largest region in terms of membership, is set to see a fierce battle for the regional chair position. Mopani district municipality mayor Pule Shayi and current regional secretary Goodman Mtileni are expected to go head-to-head for the coveted role. The race for deputy chair in this region is equally competitive, with a strong slate of candidates, including Mopani district municipality spokesperson Odas Ngobeni, Maruleng municipality mayor Tsheko Musolwa, and Greater Tzaneen mayor Gerson Molapisane, all vying for the role.
In Vhembe, a region with its own intense political dynamics, two strong slates are battling for control. Tshitereke Matibe, the MEC for Limpopo’s economic development, environment, and tourism, appears to have broad support as the preferred candidate for regional chair, appearing in two of the three slates running. District executive mayor Freda Nkondo, who has garnered significant attention, is seen as a strong contender for the deputy chairperson position.
Sekhukhune, another critical region, is likely to see district executive mayor Minah Bahula rise to the regional chair role, with Elias Motsoaledi mayor Magetle David Tladi contesting the deputy chair position. Current regional secretary Mathope Tala is expected to retain his position, further solidifying the region’s political stability.
In Peter Mokaba, the battle for regional chairperson has two key contenders: Polokwane municipality mayor John Mpe and Mamedupi Teffo, the executive mayor for the Capricorn district municipality. This race is particularly significant, as whoever emerges victorious will play a central role in shaping the future of the party in the province’s political capital.
The outcome of these regional conferences could also provide insight into broader national trends within the ANC. With several influential players involved, the results will not only determine the leadership structure in Limpopo but could signal the direction of the party as it prepares for future challenges at both the provincial and national levels. Given Limpopo’s status as a powerhouse in ANC politics, the region’s leadership battles will undoubtedly be a focal point for observers as the party positions itself for the next phase of its leadership cycle.