Mkhize throws hat into ANC leadership ring

SEASONED ANC leader Dr Zweli Mkhize is making a bold assertion about his political future, announcing his readiness to contend for the ANC national leadership, contingent upon receiving nominations from the party’s membership.

- THAMI MAGUBANE

In a recent interview, Mkhize expressed unequivocally that he had no plans to retire from politics, indicating that he would be available for leadership should the ANC delegates wish to see him in that role.

Political analysts and ANC members alike surmise that Mkhize could potentially secure a significant position within the party, given his enduring support among ANC supporters and regional powerbrokers.

However, they caution that the road ahead will not be paved with ease.

The ANC is anticipated to convene an elective conference around 2027, and as of now, no clear frontrunner for the position of party president has emerged. Mkhize previously vied for this role in 2022, nearly securing it before withdrawing just before the elections.

His extensive political portfolio includes serving as minister of health, ANC treasurer-general, and premier of KwaZulu-Natal, among others.