‘The Dark Prince’ explores Paul Mashatile’s path to power

Keely Goodall
16 October 2025 | 12:56Pieter du Toit’s latest book looks into the ANC’s ‘crown prince’ Paul Mashathile.
FILE: Deputy President Paul Mashatile in the National Assembly on 8 May 2025. Picture: Phando Jikelo/Parliament
‘The Dark Prince’ takes a deep dive into the political career of Paul Mashatile and his controversial rise through the ranks of the ANC.
Over his 30-year political career, Mashatile has successfully navigated the corruption and factionalism of the ANC and has grand ambitions to take charge of the party and the country.
Author and investigative journalist Pieter du Toit explored Mashatile’s alleged links to the ‘Alex Mafia’ and the parallels between his rise and the corruption and factionalism characteristic of the Zuma era.
Du Toit states that Mashatile conducts many of his dealings ‘in the dark'.
“A Mashatile presidency carries hues of darkness," he adds.
He warns that certain individuals have leverage over Mashatile, which could sway his decisions if he were to lead the country.
To listen to author Pieter du Toit in conversation with Mandy Wiener on the Midday Report on 702 and CapeTalk, click the audio player for more:
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