Panyaza Lesufi Elected Gauteng ANC Chair By Razor-thin Margin

Panyaza Lesufi has been elected as the new ANC Gauteng provincial chairperson, albeit by a slim margin, in what will go down in history as a decidedly poorly organized conference.

Delegates confirmed observers’ claims that the conference had been marred by chaos and mismanagement shortly before Lesufi was declared the winner over Lebogang Maile. He takes the reins from Premier David Makhura.

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At least three delegates took turns criticizing the national executive committee (NEC) and provincial leadership during the open sessions at plenary. One delegate urged the ANC leaders in attendance to consider the needs of its branches when planning conferences.

Although Maile lost, his ally TK Nciza was elected provincial secretary, beating Jacob Khawe and Thulani Kunene.

Tasneem Motara, another candidate on Maile’s ticket, was elected deputy provincial secretary. Morakane Mosupyoe, the ANC Gauteng provincial treasurer, rounded out the top five positions. She won by one vote over Paul Mojapelo.

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Lesufi had Mosupyoe on his list. Lesufi’s slate earned three of the top five spots, while Maile’s slate earned two.

Maile tweeted his congratulations to the education MEC.  “All the best my brother. You ran a clean campaign befitting a leader of our movement. We all rally behind the elected leadership as we work towards ANC victory in 2024,” he wrote.

Lesufi responded: “We are together forever, my Cde Lebogang Maile. Let’s carry this task together.”