Norman Mashabane Region remains mum on support for Makamu

The ANC in the Norman Mashabane Region, Limpopo, has refused to confirm whether it will support current Deputy Secretary Basikop Makamu’s bid to return to the party’s top five at next year’s provincial conference.

The highly anticipated ANC 11th Provincial Conference will take place from 27 to 29 March 2026. So far, the region has openly endorsed its Chairperson, Pule Shai, for a position in the top five.

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The decision follows discussions at a recent Special Regional General Council [RGC] meeting at the Tzaneen Development Centre.

According to regional spokesperson Peter Hassan Ngobeni, Makamu’s name did not feature in the deliberations.

“We have made it clear that we are behind our regional chair to assume a position in the top five because he is ready, considering his well-decorated credentials as a grounded leader of the movement who cut his teeth in the youth structures,” Ngobeni told Energy FM.

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However, Makamu, who currently serves in the top five without the official backing of his home region, is rumoured to be eyeing another position, although details remain unclear.

Meanwhile, the race for the Limpopo chairmanship is gaining momentum, with Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba and ANC Peter Mokaba Regional Chair John Makoro Mpe emerging as frontrunners to replace outgoing provincial chairperson Stan Mathabatha.

Current Provincial Secretary Reuben Madadzhe is also believed to be enjoying strong support from several regions, including Vhembe and Peter Mokaba, as he seeks a second term.