Tokyo Sexwale Endorses Paul Mashatile for South Africa’s Presidency, Urges End to ANC Infighting

In a bold move that could reshape the future of South Africa’s political landscape, ANC veteran Tokyo Sexwale has publicly endorsed Paul Mashatile as the next president of the country. Speaking during a wide-ranging interview with author and broadcaster Sizwe Mpofu-Walsh, Sexwale called for an end to the internal conflicts within the African National Congress (ANC), describing the ongoing turmoil as “bloodletting” that must stop.

A Call for Stability in the ANC

Sexwale’s endorsement comes at a critical time for the ANC, which has been plagued by factional battles and leadership disputes. With the next general election scheduled for 2029, the party faces mounting pressure to unite and present a cohesive vision for the country.

“This bloodletting in the ANC must come to an end,” Sexwale declared. He expressed concern over the trend of ANC presidents being ousted unceremoniously, a pattern that began with the removal of Thabo Mbeki and continued with Jacob Zuma.

Why Mashatile?

Sexwale’s support for Mashatile is rooted in his desire for stability and continuity within the ANC. He likened the current political climate to the 2007 Polokwane Conference, where internal divisions led to the ousting of Thabo Mbeki.

“I said the president [Ramaphosa] is in the departure lounge. His suitcases are being packed every day. Mashatile is going to arrive. Will he be the president? I wish he [would] be,” Sexwale said.

He emphasized the need to honor the legacy of Nelson Mandela, who warned against the dangers of internal strife within the ANC. “This is the African National Congress of Nelson Mandela, who gave us this organisation at Mafikeng. But he warned us, ‘Be careful.’ Read his closing remarks when he pointed fingers at leaders,” Sexwale added.

Ramaphosa’s Presidency Under Scrutiny

While Sexwale did not explicitly call for Ramaphosa’s removal, he expressed dissatisfaction with the current state of leadership. He stressed that he does not want Ramaphosa to be “driven out of office” in the same manner as his predecessors.

“I wouldn’t like Cyril to be driven out of the office; it’s not in my interest. Maybe I don’t like him, maybe he must go, maybe. But, no matter who dislikes him, I don’t want a repetition of this trend in South Africa where a president is… ‘kick him out.’ So, if that happens, it just juxtaposes everything. Therefore, we are not learning from history,” Sexwale said.

Mashatile’s Path to the Presidency

Paul Mashatile, the current Deputy President of the ANC, is widely seen as a frontrunner to succeed Ramaphosa. With the ANC’s elective conference scheduled for 2027, Mashatile’s candidacy could gain momentum, especially with endorsements from influential figures like Sexwale.

Sexwale made it clear that he would personally support Mashatile if given the opportunity. “So, if there is a vote, I’ll put my vote. He can be defeated, but one of the defeated votes will be mine,” he said.

Criticism of Ramaphosa’s Leadership

Sexwale’s comments echo earlier criticisms of Ramaphosa’s leadership. In 2022, political analyst Moeletsi Mbeki described Ramaphosa as a “party agent” rather than a true leader. Mbeki argued that while Ramaphosa has a strong public relations team, his presidency has failed to deliver meaningful change for South Africa.

As the ANC prepares for its 2027 elective conference, the party faces a critical juncture. The endorsement of Mashatile by a respected figure like Sexwale could galvanize support within the party and signal a shift toward greater unity.

However, the ANC must also address the deep-rooted divisions that have undermined its credibility and effectiveness. Sexwale’s call to end the “bloodletting” is a reminder that the party’s survival depends on its ability to learn from past mistakes and chart a new course.

Tokyo Sexwale’s endorsement of Paul Mashatile as South Africa’s next president highlights the growing demand for stability and strong leadership within the ANC. As the party navigates its internal challenges, the 2027 elective conference will be a pivotal moment in determining the future of South Africa’s political landscape.

For now, all eyes are on Mashatile and whether he can rise to the occasion, unify the ANC, and lead the country toward a brighter future.

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