Florence Radzilana, Current ANC Deputy Provincial Chairperson.
The African National Congress in Limpopo has officially declared its readiness to host the 11th Provincial Conference. Scheduled to take place at the Piersburg Cricket Club in Polokwane from 27 to 29 March 2026.
The event will gather 1,500 delegates under a massive dome structure. With the theme focusing on renewal and a decisive victory, the province is racing against a strict month end deadline set by the National Executive Committee.
Total voting strength sits at 1,170 delegates drawn from 529 qualified branches. The Vhembe Region leads the delegation with 296 representatives, closely followed by Norman Mashabane with 279.
Other regions, including Peter Mokaba, Sekhukhune, and Waterberg, have also finalized their lists. Per constitutional requirements, 90 percent of these voters come directly from branches, ensuring that the grassroots voice remains central to the proceedings.
While the provincial leadership emphasizes a smooth transition, the path has not been entirely without hurdles. All disputes lodged with the Provincial Dispute Resolution Committee have been processed.
Notably, four significant disputes emerged from the Norman Mashabane Region. One specific case involved the Mokwape Edwin Malatji Branch within the Mark Shope Subregion of Greater Tzaneen. These matters have now moved toward finality as the organization seeks to enter the cricket club venue with a clean slate.
A major talking point ahead of the gathering is the emergence of a powerful unity slate. This proposed collective seeks to avoid the bruising contests of the past. Dr. Phophi Ramathuba is widely expected to be affirmed as the Provincial Chairperson, with John Mpe as her deputy. Reuben Madadzhe is slated to retain his influential role as Provincial Secretary. Pule Shayi, a favourite in the Norman Mashabane Region, is positioned for the Deputy Secretary role, while Eddie Maila is the preferred candidate for Provincial Treasurer.
However, the “unity slate” may face a test from the conference floor. There is lingering speculation that those not featuring prominently in the current arrangement might be nominated by delegates during the session. A key figure in this dynamic is the current Deputy Provincial Secretary, Basikopo Makamu. Having previously served in high ranking provincial roles, his apparent relegation to the periphery has sparked discussions about potential disruptions to the consensus model.
Beyond the “Top Five” officials, the Norman Mashabane Region is expected to secure a fair share of the 30 additional members of the Provincial Executive Committee. Pule Shayi’s leadership in Mopani is likely to be bolstered by five additional members from his region, ensuring an equitable distribution of provincial power.
Logistics are firmly in place, with pre-registration beginning on 20 March for Waterberg and Peter Mokaba delegates.
Due to space constraints at the venue, a strict park and ride system will be implemented. No private vehicles will be allowed at the site, and delegates will be bussed from their accommodation to ensure a disciplined and orderly environment.
The ANC Limpopo stands at a crossroads, balancing the desire for total consensus with the unpredictable nature of branch democracy.