ANC First Deputy Secretary-General Nomvula Mokonyane has stated that the party is more than ready for a female president and that she is prepared to stand for the position ahead of the 2027 elections.
In an interview, Mokonyane acknowledged that the ANC remains a deeply conservative organization where patriarchy is entrenched. She argued that this system is often reinforced when women are pitted against each other, criticizing individuals—including women—who are not genuinely committed to advancing female leadership.
Despite these challenges, Mokonyane believes it is both possible and necessary for a woman to lead the ANC. She pointed to the party’s history, recalling the 1991 national conference where women successfully lobbied for a 30% quota for female representation in leadership.
She stated that the question should no longer be about the ANC’s readiness but about supporting eligible women who are prepared to lead. When asked directly if she would stand for the presidency, Mokonyane responded, “Yes.”
Mokonyane emphasized that women have always been ready to lead, highlighting their critical roles in the liberation struggle. She concluded that the need for justification only arises when the leader is a woman, whereas for men, it is often assumed.