An independent political analyst has criticised the ANC in Limpopo for reshuffling mayors and senior political figures before the end of their terms, warning that the move could deepen divisions ahead of the 2026 Local Government Elections.
Political analyst Johannes Mushwana said the ongoing reshuffle process in the ANC’s Vhembe and Norman Mashabane regions reflects instability within the party’s Provincial Working Committee (PWC).
The comments come after ANC Limpopo Provincial Secretary Reuben Madadzhe and provincial spokesperson Ernest Rachoene held caucus meetings with regional structures on Friday to implement resolutions adopted by the PWC on 4 May 2026 at Frans Mohlala House in Polokwane.
Mushwana argued that the ANC leadership should have allowed current mayors to complete their terms instead of rushing leadership changes months before the elections.
“They are failing to wait for just six months to implement the changes,” said Mushwana.
He also questioned the redeployment of former Mopani District Municipality communications head Odas Ngobeni to serve as a PR councillor at Greater Tzaneen Municipality, saying the transition could place him under significant political pressure.
Ngobeni replaces businessman Tennyson Ngobeni, who resigned earlier this week.
The reshuffles have also revived debate around the ANC Youth League’s “Moswa Paleng” campaign, which pushes for younger leaders to be elevated into positions of power. In 2025, the ANCYL called for Faith Sebopela to be deployed as an MEC under the slogan.
Mushwana said the latest developments could strengthen the “Moswa Paleng” movement, but warned that replacing leaders prematurely may create instability in governance and service delivery.
“The ANC is trying to recognise younger leaders because they have noticed the gap between unemployed youth and those in leadership positions. The ‘Moswa Paleng’ campaign will gain strength from these decisions, but they should have waited for the current mayors to finish their terms,” he said.
Meanwhile, tensions reportedly continue in the Greater Tzaneen Municipality, where Mayor Gerrison Molapisane is allegedly resisting calls to step down.
In contrast, the leadership transition at Vhembe District Municipality proceeded without major disruptions. During a special council sitting, councillors voted between ANC candidate Miyelani Chauke and EFF councillor Matidza Ngobeni.
Chauke secured victory with 38 votes against the EFF’s six votes and was officially sworn in as the new Executive Mayor of Vhembe District Municipality.
During his acceptance speech, Chauke promised to prioritise reliable water supply, infrastructure development, economic opportunities, and dignified living conditions for residents.
He also urged traditional leaders to help stop illegal water connections in communities.
Chauke replaces former mayor Fredah Nkondo, who was aligned with regional ANC figures Tshitereke Matibe and Matodzi Ralushai during the party’s 9th regional conference in May 2025.
With internal ANC divisions continuing to surface across Limpopo, political observers say coalition politics could become a real possibility after the local government elections scheduled for November 2026.