President Cyril Ramaphosa addressed the ANC's Limpopo provincial elective conference in Polokwane, calling on delegates to secure 90% in upcoming local government elections. The event saw unopposed leadership elections, with Premier Phophi Ramathuba becoming the first female provincial chairperson. Tensions surfaced over the SACP's independent election bids.
President Cyril Ramaphosa spoke at the closing of the ANC's 11th Limpopo provincial elective conference in Polokwane on Sunday. He praised the province's unity and organisation, highlighting its more than 73% vote share in the 2024 national elections, the highest for the ANC provincially. Ramaphosa described Limpopo as the 'home of the ANC' and urged its leadership to deliver 90% support in local government elections expected later this year.
More than 1,300 delegates gathered for the highly organised event, where leaders were elected unopposed. Incumbent Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba was chosen as provincial chairperson, replacing Stanley Mathabatha after three terms. Other positions went to Polokwane Mayor John Mpe as deputy chairperson, Reuben Madadzhe as provincial secretary, Pule Shayi as deputy secretary, and Eddie Maila as treasurer. A court bid to halt proceedings over delegate verification from Ward 10 was dismissed by the Polokwane High Court.
Delegates disrupted the conference by booing and heckling SACP representative Percy Ndlala, protesting the party's decision to contest elections independently. ANC regional leader David 'Che' Selane raised concerns about SACP campaigns hindering ANC door-to-door efforts. Ramathuba suggested the SACP focus on weaker ANC provinces, while Ramaphosa said the NEC would resolve the issue. He warned dual ANC-SACP members against campaigning for rivals, stating they would face consequences.
ANC deputy secretary general Maropene Ramokgopa noted Limpopo's strong performance stabilised the party after its national vote fell to 40% in 2024. The province's results are seen as key to setting a national tone amid slipping support in metros due to service delivery issues.
