Limpopo Cabinet Reshuffle Looms as Ramathuba Plans Major ANC Leadership Changes
LIMPOPO: A political storm is gathering in Limpopo as Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba is expected to announce a major provincial government reshuffle this week, with four ANC deployed leaders reportedly set to make way for new appointments.
Sources close to the provincial leadership claim Ramathuba will invoke Section 132 of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa to exercise her authority over the appointment, dismissal and reassignment of Members of the Executive Council (MECs).
If confirmed, the move would mark another significant intervention by the premier, who has previously used her constitutional powers to restructure her executive team.
Ramathuba last reshuffled her cabinet on 18 June 2024, shortly after being elected as premier of Limpopo’s seventh provincial administration following the 2024 general elections.
The latest expected changes come months after the ANC’s 11th Limpopo Provincial Elective Conference, held in Polokwane in March 2026, where Ramathuba was elected unopposed as the party’s first female provincial chairperson.
Political insiders suggest the timing of the reshuffle is linked to preparations for upcoming ANC sub regional conferences, where party structures are expected to undergo further changes.
ANC heavyweights tipped for provincial cabinet positions
Among the MECs reportedly facing removal or reassignment are Violet Mathye, Biskop Makamu, and Ernest Rachoene.
According to sources, the replacements are expected to come from senior ANC provincial leaders, including Deputy Secretary Pule Shayi, Treasurer Eddie Maila, and Deputy Chairperson John Mpe.
The reported appointments would bring key party figures directly into the provincial executive, a move that could strengthen the relationship between the provincial government and ANC structures ahead of future political contests.
Sources further claim that Makamu could be moved to replace Limpopo Legislature Speaker Makoma Makhurupetje during a special sitting expected to take place at Lebowakgomo on Tuesday, 4 August 2026.
The possible move has attracted attention because of Ramathuba’s long-standing political relationship with Makamu, although no official confirmation has been provided.
Proposed changes across key portfolios
According to a reliable source, the following portfolio changes are being considered:
- Pule Shayi, the ANC Limpopo Deputy Secretary and Executive Mayor of Mopani District Municipality, is expected to replace Biskop Makamu as MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs.
- Eddie Maila, ANC provincial Treasurer and Executive Mayor of Fetakgomo Tubatse Municipality, is expected to replace Violet Mathye as MEC for Transport and Community Safety.
- John Mpe, ANC provincial Deputy Chairperson and Executive Mayor of the City of Polokwane, is expected to replace Ernest Rachoene as MEC for Public Works and Infrastructure.
Rachoene currently serves as the ANC Limpopo provincial spokesperson.
Premier’s office remains tight lipped
When contacted by MDN News, spokesperson for the Office of the Premier Ndavhe Ramakuela declined to confirm whether a reshuffle was imminent.
The lack of confirmation has fuelled speculation, with political observers closely watching developments ahead of the expected special sitting.
Analyst describes move as a political reset
Independent political analyst Johannes Mushwana described the possible reshuffle as a “new broom sweep clean” approach, suggesting it could represent an attempt by the provincial leadership to reposition government and strengthen service delivery.
“It’s political positioning aimed at giving others a chance at mayoral level, with a new campaign strategy and accelerated service delivery in municipalities,” Mushwana said.
The ANC, which secured 68.27% of the vote in the previous local government elections in Limpopo, remains confident that it will maintain its dominance in the province.
However, the expected reshuffle will be closely watched as an indicator of Ramathuba’s political direction and the ANC’s strategy ahead of future electoral battles.
