Patrice Motsepe, billionaire mining entrepreneur and President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), has dismissed rumours suggesting he plans to vie for leadership of South Africa’s liberation party, the African National Congress (ANC), in 2027.
Motsepe, a prominent figure in the business world, is also the current South African President Cyril Ramaphosa’s brother-in-law. Ramaphosa, who took over ANC leadership in December 2017 and became president in early 2018, secured a second term in 2023, which is set to end in 2027. Speculation has emerged within ANC circles that Motsepe could be a potential successor.
Speaking at the South African National Editors Forum (SANEF) fundraising dinner at the Houghton Hotel in Johannesburg, Motsepe addressed the growing speculation about his political ambitions. According to IOL, he emphasised that his contributions to the country don’t require holding public office.
“I don’t need to be in politics to make a meaningful impact,” he said. “What South Africa needs most is unity and collaboration focused on shared priorities.”
Motsepe, who described himself as conservative and a long-time supporter of the ANC – which he called the “Mandela party” – expressed strong support for democratic institutions and all political parties in South Africa.
“This nation is full of capable individuals who can lead, including the next president. I will continue to contribute in my own small way, alongside my family,” he concluded.
