The ANC in Gauteng will investigate allegations of vote buying at its Johannesburg regional conference, where Loyiso Masuku defeated incumbent Dada Morero for the chairperson position.
Provincial task team convener Amos Masondo confirmed the probe, stating the party is aware of suspicions surrounding the conference. He emphasized the ANC’s commitment to eliminating “brown envelopes and money politics” and said disciplinary action would be taken against those involved.
We will have to really ensure that, among others, we enforce discipline and people found on the wrong side are dealt with. Of course, we will act in a way that seeks to ensure we are fair but remain firm and that we are consistent in dealing with those who are introducing un-ANC tendencies.
— Amos Masondo, ANC Gauteng provincial task team convener
Reports from the conference described bags of money allegedly being exchanged for votes. Outgoing chair Dada Morero had previously criticized the persistence of vote buying within the party.
Morero’s defeat raises questions about his future as Johannesburg mayor, as regional chairs typically also lead in government. However, Masuku has downplayed talks of an immediate change in the city’s leadership.
Masondo said the provincial task team will engage with the new regional leadership to ensure stability and that governance is not disrupted. He added that the task team has completed its work and is ready to hand over to the newly elected structure.