Former Limpopo Premier Stanley Mathabatha resigns as ANC provincial chairperson

Zuko Komisa

Stanley Mathabatha has resigned as the ANC’s Limpopo provincial chairperson, citing ethical concerns.
His resignation letter references alleged misconduct and a lack of party values within the regional conferences of Vhembe and Waterberg.
Mathabatha has stepped aside to allow the party to function without his involvement while remaining available for further deliberation with the national office.

Former Limpopo Premier Stanley Mathabatha has stepped down as the African National Congress (ANC) provincial chairperson in Limpopo with immediate effect.

In a resignation letter dated 1 September, addressed to ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula, Mathabatha cited concerns over alleged misconduct and a departure from the party’s core values.

The former Premier, who has led the provincial party for several years, highlighted what he described as widespread unethical behaviour and a breakdown in organisational integrity. He specifically pointed to the recent regional conferences in Vhembe and Waterberg as the primary reason for his decision.

“This decision is motivated by the concerning misconduct and lack of ANC values that I have observed within the organisation in this province, particularly in relation to the processes towards and conduct within the conferences of the Vhembe and Waterberg regions,” Mathabatha wrote.

Both the Vhembe and Waterberg regions recently held conferences to elect new leadership.

Mathabatha stated that he could not remain a part of what he called “un-ANC” tendencies occurring under his leadership. “I always stand available to deliberate these issues further with the National Office Bearers of the ANC at their convenience and make myself available for any interviews. Until then, I will step aside to allow the organisation to function without my involvement,” he added.

His sudden resignation signals potential deeper internal challenges within the ANC’s Limpopo structures, coming at a critical time as the party prepares for the 2026 local government elections.