Ramaphosa Under Strong Siege as Party Hardliners Rally for a Leadership Overthrow
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa is facing fresh waves of political friction within his governing party, as reports surface of former allies allegedly lobbying for his removal from the leadership of the African National Congress (ANC). While the extent of the alleged plot remains disputed, the developments highlight growing ideological strain and shifting power dynamics inside the party.
Rumours of internal lobbying gained momentum following claims that a number of influential party figures have been working behind the scenes to persuade senior members of the ANC to support Ramaphosa’s exit. Although speculative in nature, the claims have added fuel to long-standing factional divides that have intermittently destabilised ANC unity over recent years.
Ramaphosa Pushes Back Against Rumours of a “Silent Recall”
In a recent National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting, Ramaphosa addressed the allegations directly. In a bold and calculated response, he challenged anyone seeking his removal to table the matter openly and formally. He went further, reportedly asserting that if the party wished for him to resign, a simple vote or official request would be enough to see him step down — “even tomorrow.”
This statement appeared aimed at disarming whispers of conspiratorial manoeuvring and forcing dissenting voices into the light. The president also emphasised transparency and accountability, calling for lifestyle audits among NEC members and invoking anti-corruption efforts as a continued priority under his administration.
Party Structures Rally in Defence of the President
Despite isolated allegations of internal lobbying, three of the ANC’s most influential bodies — the Youth League, Women’s League, and Veterans’ League — have publicly thrown their weight behind Ramaphosa. Their statements reinforced support for his presidency and rejected any notion of a formal leadership challenge.
Senior party officials have also dismissed reports of an organised plot, describing them as baseless, destabilising, or at worst politically opportunistic. For now, the official stance of the ANC leadership is one of unity — at least outwardly.
A Battle of Ideology, Power, and Party Identity
While the party leadership denies any coordinated removal agenda, the underlying causes of tension cannot be ignored. Analysts suggest that discomfort with policy direction, shifting influence within top structures, and internal power realignments may be contributing to dissatisfaction among certain factions.
The upcoming National General Council — scheduled for December 2025 — is seen as a pivotal moment. Such gatherings have historically shaped leadership trajectories, and with factional heat rising, some believe it could be a decisive test of Ramaphosa’s authority.
Where Things Stand Now
At present, Ramaphosa maintains formal backing from significant ANC structures, and no open challenge to his leadership has materialised. However, the emergence of alleged behind-the-scenes lobbying reveals fractures within the party that could intensify as South Africa approaches future electoral cycles.
The president’s direct call for transparency — and willingness to step aside if formally required — may strengthen his hand politically, or alternatively provide an opening for power blocs to challenge him openly rather than quietly.
For now, Ramaphosa remains secure — but the political landscape beneath him continues to shift.
Source: Araba Sey
