The ANC has denounced the so-called PM27 campaign which is actively campaigning for billionaire businessman Dr. Patrice Motsepe to run for the ANC presidency in 2027.
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The ANC has warned those behind the campaign to elect billionaire businessman Patrice Motsepe as party president to stop their activity immediately.
In a statement, the party said, “It notes with grave concern the activities associated with the so-called PM27 campaign."
The statement does not mention anyone by name but the catchphrase PM27 has been linked to a campaign to have Motsepe run for the ANC presidency in 2027. It was reported by The Mercury on Monday that a website dedicated to the campaign had been set up.
On the website, it states that the “PM27 Campaign champions Patrice Motsepe as the most credible, unifying, and visionary leader to guide the African National Congress (ANC) and South Africa into a new era of integrity, growth, and unity.”
Motsepe, himself, has not announced his interest in the ANC president position or any link to the campaign.
The ANC statement said that the ANC National Executive Committee has made a clear and principled decision that no leadership campaigns should be undertaken in the lead-up to the 2027 national conference.
“This decision was taken with the need to safeguard organisational unity, protect internal processes, and ensure that the movement remains focused on its immediate mandate to serve the people of South Africa. Any activity that seeks to prematurely mobilise for leadership positions stands in direct contradiction to this collective resolution,” it said.
The statement said the party is currently seized with preparing to contest the local government elections. It continued, “Our structure, members and deployees are expected to direct all energy and resources toward strengthening governance, improving service delivery, rebuilding communities, and consolidating the confidence of the electorate.”
The party warned that attempts to advance parallel leadership at this stage are divisive and distract from the core work of the organisation.
“The ANC therefore unequivocally condemns the PM27 campaign and calls on all those involved to desist. The movement will not allow ambition to undermine organisational discipline and unity,” the party warned.
The PM27 campaign organisers will be approached for comment.
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