As South Africa’s African National Congress (ANC) grapples with its steepest political decline since apartheid, speculation is mounting around billionaire Patrice Motsepe as a potential successor to President Cyril Ramaphosa. Although Motsepe has publicly dismissed the idea, his name remains a symbol of stability for a party eroded by scandal and losing its electoral majority. Analysts suggest his appeal lies in his financial independence, clean record, and global profile as a mining magnate and football administrator, offering a contrast to tainted career politicians. This chatter reflects a desperate search for credibility rather than a declared campaign, highlighting the ANC’s thin leadership pipeline. However, significant hurdles remain, including resistance from traditional party structures and leftist allies who may be skeptical of a billionaire.
The Africa Report
