Power struggles, compromises reshape ANC leadership in Gauteng

Stabilising cities becomes cardinal

- By Queenin Masuabi

Ekurhuleni executive mayor Nkosindiphile Xhakaza

It has been a turbulent week for the ANC in Gauteng, with political developments in the province's two largest metros reaping interesting outcomes.

Changes in Ekurhuleni and the City of Johannesburg, signal potential shifts that could redefine the region's power dynamics ahead of the next local government elections.

In Ekurhuleni, the unexpected resignation of Jongizizwe Dlabathi, a key figure within the party, has unsettled the regional leadership. Dlabathi served simultaneously as ANC regional secretary and finance MMC. The dual responsibility positioned him at the heart of the party's internal coordination, as well as the municipality's financial management.

The Ekurhuleni regional structure held a meeting on Friday evening, where they attempted to persuade Dlabathi to continue his responsibilities in the party.

"We have given him two weeks to decide whether he will continue as the secretary. It is an election year, so we cannot afford not to have a good secretary," a source said.