Speculation around Didiza's candidacy for ANC leadership

NATIONAL Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza has been tipped as one of the leaders who might be lobbied to contest the ANC presidency at the next elective conference.

- BONGANI HANS

According to an ANC regional leader in KwaZulu-Natal, who attended the party's National General Council (NGC) in Johannesburg, some ANC delegates have indicated that they might nominate Didiza to contest the party's highest position.

"Since she is the Speaker at the National Assembly, obviously, she would be able to replace Ramaphosa and be sympathetic towards him after he had left the office," said the regional leader.

He said the ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula blocked the succession debate when some delegates attempted to raise it at the NGC gathering.

"But as a member of the structures of the ANC and as regional chairperson of the ANC, I know this thing," said the leader.

The ANC is expected to hold its next elective conference in 2027, which would mark the end of Ramaphosa's tenure.

Others who have been seen as potential successors to Ramaphosa include former Health minister Zweli Mkhize, Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi, Mbalula, and suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu.

Another ANC regional leader, who is not mandated to speak to the media, said after several unsuccessful attempts to convince Lesufi to contest the presidential position, some party leaders felt that Didiza might be an alternative candidate.