Paul Mashatile Moves Closer to the Top Job — But Can He Actually Win the ANC?

South African Deputy President Paul Mashatile is increasingly being mentioned in discussions about the African National Congress’s (ANC) future leadership as the party prepares for its 2027 national elective conference.

Mashatile’s recent appearance at the Union Buildings has once again drawn attention to his political ambitions and his possible role in the race to succeed President Cyril Ramaphosa.

According to sources reportedly close to the ANC’s headquarters at Luthuli House, Mashatile has spent the past eight months strengthening his political support structures in different provinces ahead of the upcoming conference.

The sources claim that he held meetings with three branch executive committees in KwaZulu-Natal during March as part of efforts to consolidate support. However, his activities have reportedly been described by his camp as ordinary deputy presidential outreach rather than preparations for a leadership campaign.

ANC spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu-Motsiri said the party does not comment on internal succession discussions. She also indicated that President Ramaphosa continues to enjoy the confidence of the National Executive Committee (NEC).

Political analyst Ebrahim Fakir, speaking to Opera News Hub, reportedly suggested that Mashatile occupies a favourable position within the current political environment. His role as Deputy President gives him national visibility, while he is not directly associated with all the controversies surrounding Ramaphosa’s presidency.

Mashatile has spent several decades building his political career within the ANC. He served as Gauteng Premier between 2008 and 2009 before holding various government responsibilities, including positions linked to Treasury, Housing, and Arts and Culture.

His political journey eventually led to his appointment as South Africa’s Deputy President in March 2023 by Ramaphosa.

His experience in government and established political connections, particularly in Gauteng, could be important factors in any future leadership contest.

An incident at the OR Tambo birthday memorial in April also attracted attention after a veteran ANC Women’s League delegate was reportedly seen speaking privately to Mashatile during the event. He listened, nodded and later appeared to send a message on his phone. However, the purpose of their exchange remains unknown.

Despite the growing speculation, it is not yet clear whether Mashatile intends to contest the ANC presidency or whether he has enough support across different provinces to secure victory.

Another important factor will be whether he can attract support beyond his traditional political base, particularly if Ramaphosa’s preferred successor enters the race.

South Africa’s political future will also depend on the country’s parliamentary dynamics, as becoming president requires securing the necessary support in Parliament.

With the ANC’s 2027 elective conference approaching, attention is likely to remain on Mashatile and other potential leadership contenders.

For now, the Deputy President has not been confirmed to have officially declared his intention to run for the ANC presidency, leaving questions about his next political move unanswered.

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