Patrice Motsepe for President? ‘I think he could do something fascinating’ – Janet Smith, journalist

CapeTalk’s Lester Kiewit speaks with Janet Smith, author of ‘Patrice Motsepe: An Appetite for Disruption’.

Listen below:

The ANC will have an elective conference in 2027, and while Cyril Ramaphosa could run for a third term of the ANC presidency, he could not run again for the presidency of South Africa.

Whispers are making the rounds that a campaign is being quietly organised for Patrice Motsepe to become the president of the ANC, and then the president of South Africa.

Motsepe is the founder and executive chairman of African Rainbow Minerals, the chairman of the Confederation of African Football, and the brother-in-law of President Cyril Ramaphosa.

His net worth of R2.4 billion makes him the fourth richest South African.

Motsepe has never publicly expressed political ambitions, though some believe he could be keeping his cards close to his chest.

Smith spoke to Motsepe about his ambitions, but says he gave rather ambiguous answers.

“I could not quite get an answer out of him, but let’s say, from my point of view, I think he wants the bigger office, which is president of FIFA.”

- Janet Smith, Author - ‘Patrice Motsepe: An Appetite for Disruption’

She adds that Motsepe has funded several different parties, including the ANC, EFF and VF+, which suggests he is not overly ideological.

RELATED: Patrice Motsepe reelected unopposed as CAF President, what does this mean for football?

“He is interesting in that sense… it is about trying to make sure everyone has a voice.”

- Janet Smith, Author - ‘Patrice Motsepe: An Appetite for Disruption’

“I wish he would throw his hat in the ring to lead South Africa. I think he could do something quite fascinating.”

- Janet Smith, Author - ‘Patrice Motsepe: An Appetite for Disruption’

Scroll up to the audio player to listen to the interview for more.