In a surprising twist, reports have surfaced alleging that Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi is secretly meeting with former President Jacob Zuma to challenge President Cyril Ramaphosa’s leadership within the African National Congress (ANC). These claims have ignited speculation about a brewing power struggle within the ruling party.
A Secret Alliance?
Sources close to the situation suggest that Lesufi, a rising political figure in Gauteng, is collaborating with Zuma to form a faction within the ANC aimed at weakening Ramaphosa’s grip on power, particularly in the lead-up to future leadership elections. The discussions allegedly focus on strategies to rally support for a leadership change, with Zuma offering guidance on how to shift the balance of power in the party.
A source familiar with the alleged meetings shared, “Panyaza has grown frustrated with Ramaphosa’s handling of critical issues like corruption and economic reforms. He believes the ANC needs stronger leadership, and Zuma is advising him on how to mobilize support for change.”
ANC’s Official Response
The allegations have stirred controversy within the ANC, prompting official statements calling for unity. ANC spokesperson Pule Mabe dismissed the reports as “fabrications” and reaffirmed the party’s commitment to staying united under Ramaphosa’s leadership.
Several senior ANC officials also denied any such plot, stressing that the focus should remain on addressing South Africa’s pressing socio-economic challenges rather than on internal party conflicts.
Rising Concerns Over Lesufi’s Ambitions
Despite the party’s official stance, some within the ANC have expressed concerns about Lesufi’s growing influence and political ambitions. A senior ANC official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said, “Lesufi is ambitious, and his rapid rise in Gauteng has made him a significant player. If the reports about his partnership with Zuma are accurate, it could lead to further destabilization within the ANC.”
Zuma’s Enduring Influence
Even though Jacob Zuma was removed from office in 2018, his influence within the ANC persists, with a loyal faction still holding sway within the party. Zuma’s potential involvement in the alleged scheme to challenge Ramaphosa is fueling concerns about deepening divisions, which could spark a leadership crisis within the ANC.
Political analyst John Matiso commented, “Zuma’s influence, combined with Lesufi’s ambitions, could form a powerful alliance. If the ANC leadership fractures, it risks alienating its voter base, already shrinking due to corruption scandals and poor governance.”
Potential Consequences
This internal power struggle comes at a critical moment for the ANC, as the party grapples with declining public support and mounting internal challenges. Analysts warn that infighting could further damage the party’s credibility, undermining its ability to govern effectively.
“If these divisions persist, the ANC risks losing even more public trust,” Matiso added. “The electorate is looking for stability, and another leadership battle could push them further away.”
What’s Next?
As speculation grows, all eyes are on Lesufi and Zuma’s next moves. If the allegations are proven true, South Africa could face heightened political instability, which could have significant repercussions for both the ANC and the country’s leadership trajectory.
The situation remains fluid, and the coming months will reveal whether Lesufi and Zuma’s alleged plot will come to fruition or if Ramaphosa will successfully fend off the challenge. In the meantime, the ANC’s ability to maintain unity will be under close scrutiny as South Africans await clarity on the party’s future direction.
