In a revealing political reflection, former International Relations Minister Dr. Naledi Pandor has disclosed that she once declined a direct request from President Cyril Ramaphosa to be his deputy, a decision she now deeply regrets.
Breaking her typical diplomatic reserve, Pandor recounted the moment with striking candour. She stated that Ramaphosa personally asked her to serve as ANC Deputy President, but she declined the nomination. The reason, she revealed, was her strong disapproval of the political environment surrounding the President at the time. “I wasn’t impressed by the clowns surrounding him and their shenanigans,” Pandor said, offering a rare public critique of internal party dynamics.
This revelation provides a significant glimpse into the tensions and leadership contests within the African National Congress’s (ANC) top structures. Pandor suggested her refusal disappointed many in the party, hinting she had substantial delegate support. “ANC delegates were angry at me for dumping them. Most were willing to vote for me,” she noted.
Her comments have ignited a broader discussion about gender equality at the highest levels of South African politics. Pandor pointedly questioned the ANC’s historical record, stating, “It makes no sense why ANC refuses to have a female leader.” This challenges the party, which, despite a public commitment to gender parity and a history of influential female figures like Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, has never elected a woman as its president since its founding in 1912.
Political analysts suggest Pandor’s unprecedented openness signals a potential shift in her posture. Known as a disciplined and non-factional figure, her decision to publicly express regret and critique the party’s culture may be an attempt to reassert her influence as the ANC’s leadership landscape continues to evolve.
Her admission has undoubtedly reopened critical debates about internal party culture, leadership succession, and the persistent barriers facing women in politics. While it remains to be seen if her words will catalyse change, they have powerfully underscored how pivotal decisions, made in complex political moments, can have lasting personal and political consequences.
