Loyiso Masuku Makes History as First Female ANC Johannesburg Chairperson After Tight Win Over Dada Morero
Loyiso Masuku has been elected as the new chairperson of the ANC’s Greater Johannesburg region, becoming the first woman to hold the post in a landmark victory that signals a shift in the party’s local leadership. Masuku edged out outgoing chairperson and Johannesburg mayor Dada Morero in a close contest at the 16th Regional Elective Conference, securing 184 votes to Morero’s 149. The win, announced late on Thursday at the CedarWoods Hotel in Sandton, came amid high tensions and claims of vote-buying, highlighting the fierce battles within the ANC as it seeks to rebuild after recent electoral setbacks.
With 301 delegates present out of an expected 302, the tight race underscored the divided loyalties in the region’s branches. Masuku’s triumph not only breaks a glass ceiling but also sets her up to influence the party’s direction in South Africa’s economic hub, where issues like service delivery, corruption and unemployment dominate. As the ANC prepares for the 2026 local elections, her leadership could help rally support in a city where the party governs through fragile coalitions.
A Historic Win: Masuku’s Path to Victory
Masuku, the former regional deputy secretary-general and current MMC for Finance in Johannesburg, campaigned on promises of renewal, unity and better grassroots engagement. Her background in community organising and finance roles positioned her as a reformist ready to tackle the region’s challenges. Backed by the ANC Women’s League and Youth League, she appealed to younger members and women, who make up a growing force in the party.
The contest against Morero was intense from the start. Morero, who has served as chairperson since 2022 and doubles as mayor, had strong support from national figures like Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula. But allegations of bribery and vote-buying marred the conference, with some delegates claiming money changed hands to sway votes. Despite these shadows, the election proceeded, and Masuku’s narrow win – by just 35 votes – reflects the slim margins in ANC internal races.
Delegates praised the process as fair, though whispers of irregularities lingered. One attendee noted the high stakes: “This is about who controls Johannesburg’s ANC, and that means power in the city.”
Newly Elected Team: Fresh Faces for Johannesburg ANC
Masuku will lead a revamped executive committee, elected alongside her on Thursday. The full lineup includes:
- Regional Chairperson: Loyiso Masuku
- Regional Deputy Chairperson: Masilo Serekele
- Regional Secretary: Sasabona Manganye
- Regional Deputy Secretary: Lerato K Bob
- Regional Treasurer: Maxwell Nedzamba
This team brings a mix of experience and new energy, with Manganye known for organisational skills and Nedzamba for financial oversight. Their first task will be to unite branches after the divisive contest and focus on rebuilding trust ahead of local polls.
Morero, gracious in defeat, congratulated Masuku and pledged support. But questions remain about his future as mayor – if the new leadership pushes for change, he could face pressure to step aside before his term ends in 2026.
Broader Challenges: ANC’s Johannesburg Woes
Johannesburg’s ANC has faced tough times, with its vote share dropping to 34% in the 2024 elections, forcing coalitions to hold power. Issues like power cuts, water shortages and corruption have eroded support, leading to warnings from Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi of a “sinking ship” if unity fails.
Masuku’s election as the first woman chair offers hope for inclusivity, potentially drawing in more female voters and leaders. The ANC Women’s League hailed it as a “milestone,” saying it breaks male dominance in regional roles.
But the road ahead is bumpy. Vote-buying claims have prompted calls for probes, with some members demanding transparency to avoid repeats of past scandals. The conference itself was delayed multiple times due to disputes, showing the need for stronger internal rules.
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