ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula
In a candid moment at a key party gathering, ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula has admitted that people close to billionaire businessman Patrice Motsepe reached out to him after his earlier remarks on Motsepe’s possible interest in leading the ANC.
Mbalula, speaking at the party’s Mpumalanga Provincial General Council in Mbombela on 18 October 2025, said he did not mean to attack Motsepe and apologised if his words caused any upset. 
This comes amid ongoing whispers about who might take over from President Cyril Ramaphosa when his term ends.
Mbalula’s comments have stirred up talk in political circles, especially as the ANC gears up for its national elective conference in 2027. The party has faced tough times lately, including a drop in support during the 2024 elections, leading to a government of national unity. Now, with leadership questions in the air, figures like Motsepe – known for his mining empire and role as CAF president – are being eyed as potential fresh faces.
The Approach and Mbalula’s Apology
During his address to ANC members in Mpumalanga, Mbalula opened up about the contact from Motsepe’s circle. “I was approached by people close to Motsepe. I want to make it clear that I’m not fighting him,” he said.  He added that his past statements were just a warning against guessing games over future leaders. “If my comments offended anyone, I apologise.”
The secretary-general stressed that his words had been twisted. He described Motsepe as “a respected patriot and philanthropist,” making it clear there was no bad blood. 
This apology seems to aim at cooling things down, especially after earlier reports suggested Motsepe’s backers were unhappy.
In the same speech, Mbalula touched on broader issues like party unity and renewal. He urged members not to see meetings with leaders as secret plots. “When you see us with leaders, you must know that we are at work. We are not plotting anything,” he explained. This part of his talk appears to address rumours that have swirled around potential alliances or leadership bids.
Background to the Leadership Rumours
Talk about Motsepe eyeing the ANC top job is not new. Back in May 2025, reports claimed he was quietly building support through a so-called “M27” campaign, aiming for the 2027 conference. 
As a mining tycoon with deep pockets and connections – including family ties to Ramaphosa through marriage – Motsepe has donated millions to the ANC over the years. 
In June 2025, Mbalula poured cold water on these ideas. He said leading the ANC is not like running a football club – a nod to Motsepe’s ownership of Mamelodi Sundowns.  “These people keep saying we want Patrice Motsepe as ANC President, but I don’t even know if he is an ANC member. Yes, we eat his money; time to time he gives us money,” Mbalula quipped at the time. 
He stressed that anyone wanting to lead must come through proper party structures, not just wealth or influence.
Motsepe himself has stayed quiet on the matter. When asked earlier this year, he left the door open but did not commit. 
His close allies, however, seem keen to push back against any slights, leading to the recent approach to Mbalula.
Reactions from Party Members and Analysts
Mbalula’s apology has drawn mixed feelings. Some ANC insiders see it as a smart move to avoid rifts ahead of tough elections in 2026.  Others think it shows how big money plays a role in party politics. On social media, users have poked fun at Mbalula’s backtrack, with one calling him “the most dumbest SG ANC ever produced.” 
Political watchers say this highlights the ANC’s internal battles. With Ramaphosa’s second term winding down, names like Deputy President Paul Mashatile and Mbalula himself are in the mix for the top spot.  Motsepe, as an outsider with clean hands and deep pockets, could appeal to those wanting change. But critics argue his wealth might raise questions about buying influence.
One analyst noted that Motsepe’s philanthropy, like his big donations during Covid-19, makes him popular. 
Yet, Mbalula’s earlier jabs – like saying the ANC cannot be led like a soccer team – hit at fears of elite capture.
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