Gwede Mantashe announces retirement from ANC leadership race, highlighting age concerns amid ongoing succession debates. Gwede Mantashe, the chairperson of the ANC, declares that he is “too old” to run for the party’s top spot as internal succession disputes start to emerge. This comes as senior ANC leaders start positioning themselves for key roles ahead of theend of President Cyril Ramaphosa’s term.
The party’s national executive committee is meeting at the Birchwood Hotel on the East Rand to review its work over the current term. There has been speculation that the gathering could be used to push for Ramaphosa’s removal, but ANC leaders have repeatedly warned members against fuelling factional succession battles. Mantashe is among those who have cautioned against premature discussions on Ramaphosa’s successor before 2027, when his term as ANC president ends.
While Deputy President Paul Mashatile and secretary-general Fikile Mbalula have been widely mentioned as potential contenders, a third candidate has reportedly emerged. National Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza is said to be entering the race with backing from senior party figures, including Ramaphosa, who previously supported Senzo Mchunu to succeed him.
