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Motsepe Again Rules Out ANC Bid as Lesufi Praise Fuels 2027 Talk

At a SANEF dinner he ruled himself out of politics, with fresh attention on his pointed praise of Panyaza Lesufi.

Overview

  • Patrice Motsepe told editors at SANEF’s fundraising dinner in Johannesburg that he has no intention of entering politics or seeking the ANC presidency, repeating his long‑held position.
  • He described himself as conservative and an ANC loyalist who will contribute to South Africa outside formal office, saying the country will choose the right leaders without him.
  • Motsepe agreed with Fikile Mbalula’s view that running a political party is different from running a football club, and joked about his wealth and “knock‑knees” to dismiss suitability talk.
  • A 2022 nomination by an ANC branch in Maandagshoek helped seed recurring speculation about him as a future candidate, despite his repeated denials.
  • The Diamond Fields Advertiser reported that Motsepe singled out Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi for praise at the event, characterizing it as an endorsement that has fed early 2027 succession chatter even as ANC leaders urge against premature debates.