ANC condemns campaign aimed at Motsepe becoming next party president

The African National Congress (ANC) has condemned the “PM27” campaign - an effort apparently aimed at gathering support for billionaire businessman Patrice Motsepe to become the party’s next president come 2027.

Without dropping names, the ANC released a statement on Monday, saying all campaigning is prohibited until the party’s national executive committee (NEC) states otherwise.

The ANC is only due for a national elective conference in 2027, where its likely to emerge with a new leader.

Current president Cyril Ramaphosa is not expected to seek a third term.

ALSO READ: ANC SG Mbalula warns members against campaigning for 2027 succession

A website called PM27.org.za has come to the fore.

The website is dedicated to Motsepe, calling him “the most credible, unifying and visionary leader to guide the ANC and South Africa into a new era of integrity, growth and unity”.

No one has claimed responsibility for the website, including Motsepe.

In a media statement, the ANC has called on those behind the PM27 campaign to desist from their actions.

The party said the focus of all members should be on the upcoming local government elections, where the ANC is facing a difficult battle to reverse its declining electoral support.