Lesufi Responds After Unsolicited ANC Presidential Campaign Poster Surfaces

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has made his position on the ANC’s 2027 presidential succession debate clear after a campaign poster bearing his name began circulating on social media.

The poster, carrying the slogan “PL27”, presented Lesufi as a possible candidate to lead the African National Congress at its next national elective conference. It also promoted themes of renewal and building a stronger ANC.

However, the Gauteng leader was quick to distance himself from the campaign material, saying he had neither authorised the initiative nor intended to pursue the party’s top position.

In a statement posted on his verified X account, Lesufi asked those responsible for producing and sharing the poster to take it down.

“Those behind this, I politely and respectfully so, request that it be removed. Our focus should be on rebuilding the ANC and the renewal of our movement,” he wrote.

He went further, saying he had repeatedly made his position known and was not available or willing to take on the responsibility of becoming ANC president. He also stressed the importance of unity within the governing alliance and progressive political formations.

The development comes as attention gradually shifts towards the ANC’s 56th National Conference, scheduled for December 2027. Delegates are expected to elect a new national leadership, including a party president, as Cyril Ramaphosa approaches the end of his current leadership term.

Lesufi’s response attracted different interpretations online. Some social media users encouraged him to reconsider, arguing that the ANC needed fresh leadership and energy. Others questioned whether the poster was genuinely created by supporters or was part of a publicity strategy.

One user, @vote_checker, suggested that party members might still push for his candidacy, while @MuVoningi argued that people should be allowed to express their preferred leadership choices.

However, @JordiGriff questioned the circumstances surrounding the poster, suggesting that it could have been created to distract attention from the ANC’s electoral difficulties in Gauteng. Other users also expressed suspicion about the campaign.

The mixed reactions show how early succession discussions are already generating public debate within ANC circles, even as Lesufi insists that his priority remains rebuilding the party rather than seeking its presidency.

Source: https://x.com/brieflyza/status/2120176628781498787?s=46

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