An independent political analyst has voiced concerns regarding the ANC’s actions in Limpopo, specifically the recent reshuffling of mayors and senior officials ahead of their scheduled terms. This strategy may exacerbate factional tensions in the lead-up to the 2026 Local Government Elections.
Johannes Mushwana, a political analyst, noted that the current reshuffle within the ANC’s Vhembe and Norman Mashabane regions indicates a degree of instability within the party’s Provincial Working Committee (PWC).
His remarks follow a series of caucus meetings on Friday, led by ANC Limpopo Provincial Secretary Reuben Madadzhe and provincial spokesperson Ernest Rachoene, aimed at implementing decisions from a recent PWC gathering on May 4, 2026, at Frans Mohlala House in Polokwane.
Mushwana emphasized that the ANC leadership should have allowed sitting mayors to finish their terms rather than hastily implementing changes so close to the elections.
“They are failing to wait for just six months to implement the changes,” said Mushwana.
He raised concerns about the reassignment of Odas Ngobeni, previously the communication head for Mopani District Municipality, to a Public Relations councillor position at Greater Tzaneen Municipality, noting that this shift may expose him to considerable political pressure.
He replaces businessman Tennyson Ngobeni, who resigned earlier this week.
This reshuffling has reignited discussions surrounding the ANC Youth League’s “Moswa Paleng” initiative, advocating for younger individuals to ascend to leadership positions. In 2025, the ANCYL proposed that Faith Sebopela be appointed as an MEC under this banner.
Mushwana noted that while these changes could invigorate the “Moswa Paleng” movement, hastily replacing leaders might destabilize governance and hinder service delivery.
“The ANC is trying to recognise younger leaders because they have noticed the gap between unemployed youth and those in leadership positions. The ‘Moswa Paleng’ campaign will gain strength from these decisions, but they should have waited for the current mayors to finish their terms,” he said.
Reports suggest that tensions persist within the Greater Tzaneen Municipality, where Mayor Gerrison Molapisane is allegedly resisting calls to resign.
In other developments, the leadership change at Vhembe District Municipality occurred smoothly. In a special council meeting, councillors selected between ANC’s Miyelani Chauke and EFF councillor Matidza Ngobeni, with Chauke winning decisively with 38 votes to the EFF’s six. He has since been sworn in as the new Executive Mayor of Vhembe District Municipality.
In his acceptance speech, Chauke committed to prioritizing reliable water supply, infrastructure development, economic empowerment, and improved living standards for residents. He also called on traditional leaders to assist in curbing illegal water connections in various communities.
Chauke is taking over from former mayor Fredah Nkondo, who was associated with regional ANC figures Tshitereke Matibe and Matodzi Ralushai during the party’s ninth regional conference in May 2025.
