Thumbs up for Motsepe

As the ANC prepares for its first leadership succession since losing its parliamentary majority, speculation is mounting over billionaire mining executivePatrice Motsepeas a potential successor toCyril Ramaphosa. Insiders describe these talks as a strategic, precautionary effort aimed at stabilising both the party and South Africa’s economy ahead of the 2027 national conference and the 2029 general election. Four ANC sources, business executives and political party officials told theMail & Guardianthat Motsepe’s name has moved beyond informal speculation into structured discussions, driven by concerns over declining investor confidence in the country’s political leadership.

Motsepe’s office, however, has consistently denied any intention of entering politics. His spokesperson, Luxolo September, said the Confederation of African Football (CAF) president had “not changed his position” and remained focused on his business and philanthropic work. “Dr Motsepe has said repeatedly that he is not joining party politics and that position has not shifted,” September told theM&G.

Despite these denials, a senior government communications official and lobbyist affiliated with the South African Communist Party (SACP) told theM&Gthat he has formally taken on the role of head of media and public relations for the “PM27” campaign – an organised ANC effort exploring whether Motsepe could serve as a unifying figure within the party. “This is not about Patrice waking up one morning and wanting to be president,” the lobbyist said. “It is about stabilising the centre of power before the ANC implodes.

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We are engaging with leaders and business stakeholders to prepare for scenarios, not to push him into politics.” The campaign, referred to internally as “PM27,” involves scenario planning, consultations with provincial and business leaders and mapping support across ANC structures. “The intention is to prepare for outcomes we hope never materialise,” the lobbyist said. Senior business leaders have also taken note, viewing the initiative as a response to the ANC’s ongoing internal disputes and policy incoherence rather than an ideological endorsement of Motsepe himself.

A senior banking executive said the party’s divisions were concerning markets and that Motsepe was seen as a credible, neutral candidate who could stabilise the party and reassure investors. “His continental profile, including leadership in CAF and relationships with global investors makes him an acceptable interlocutor for both domestic and international stakeholders,” the executive said. A banking executive from another bank described early engagement in succession planning as risk management, rather than an attempt to capture the party.

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