Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has firmly dismissed speculation about his potential bid for a top leadership position in the African National Congress (ANC), effectively quashing rumors that he might contest the presidency at the party’s 56th National Elective Conference in 2027.
“I have publicly stated that I have no interest in leading the ANC at that level,” Lesufi declared, using the colloquial phrase “The area behind my ears is still damp” to emphasize his political inexperience for such a high-stakes role. His comments come amid growing internal party tensions and follow a series of controversial political maneuvers that have drawn both support and criticism.
The speculation intensified after a small but vocal group of demonstrators gathered outside Luthuli House during the ANC’s “100 Days of Government of National Unity” celebrations. Protesters displayed provocative posters with messages like “Don’t kill Chris Hani again” and “We are Panyaza Lesufi, Panyaza Lesufi is us,” highlighting deepening factional divides within the party.
Lesufi’s recent political decisions have further fueled internal debates. His allocation of just three seats to the Democratic Alliance (DA) in Gauteng’s 10-member executive following the May 29 elections – contrary to President Cyril Ramaphosa’s push for more inclusive coalition governance – led to the collapse of the provincial unity government and raised questions about national coalition stability.
Addressing these developments, Lesufi reaffirmed his loyalty to the ANC’s collective leadership. “I believe there are better leaders who can take the ANC to the next level,” he stated, distancing himself from succession talks while emphasizing party unity.
Political analysts suggest Lesufi’s denial of leadership ambitions reflects both the ANC’s complex internal dynamics and the precarious balance of South Africa’s coalition politics. As the party prepares for its crucial 2027 conference, his position illustrates the challenges facing the ANC as it navigates factionalism, governance pressures, and the demands of multiparty cooperation.
The Premier’s stance leaves open questions about the ANC’s future leadership direction, even as it attempts to present a united front amid declining electoral support and growing public scrutiny of its governance record.