Former ANC Treasurer-General Mathews Phosa has offered a revealing account of the behind-the-scenes dynamics during the 2017 ANC leadership contest. Speaking in an interview with eNCA while promoting his new book, Phosa detailed how Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma was initially the frontrunner at the NASREC conference, only to lose momentum as political alliances shifted in favor of Cyril Ramaphosa.
Phosa explained that Dlamini-Zuma appeared set to win until key contenders began withdrawing and aligning with Ramaphosa’s campaign. Even with those withdrawals, Dlamini-Zuma retained a strong position. However, according to Phosa, the pivotal moment came when then-Mpumalanga Premier David Mabuza decided to back Ramaphosa, tipping the scales decisively.
Mabuza’s move to support Ramaphosa’s slate, rather than Dlamini-Zuma’s, has long been regarded as a turning point in the closely contested race. Phosa’s remarks underscore the significance of strategic alliances and power brokers within the ANC, who have the ability to influence leadership outcomes.
The 2017 NASREC conference was marked by intense political maneuvering, with both candidates representing different visions for the ANC. Ramaphosa’s victory ultimately signaled a shift in leadership dynamics within the party, but Phosa’s insights shed light on the extent to which internal negotiations and strategic decisions shaped the outcome.
Phosa’s account provides a deeper understanding of the factional battles that defined the leadership contest. However, he cautioned that the role of power brokers like Mabuza raises questions about the transparency and democratic nature of such processes.
As with many accounts of ANC internal politics, Phosa’s perspective reflects his personal interpretation of events. The 2017 race has been subject to various narratives, and his revelations add another layer to the ongoing debate about the mechanisms of power within the ruling party.
Phosa’s book promises further exploration of these events, offering a critical look at the complex interplay of personalities, alliances, and strategies that continue to shape South African politics.