Former Limpopo Premier Stanley Mathabatha has resigned with immediate effect as the ANC’s provincial chairperson in Limpopo, citing misconduct and a departure from the party’s core values.
In a letter dated 1 September, Mathabatha addressed his resignation to ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula.
He pointed to widespread unethical conduct and a collapse in organisational integrity, particularly around the recent regional conferences in Vhembe and Waterberg.
Mathabatha Raises Concerns Over Regional Conferences
The Waterberg and Vhembe regions recently elected new leadership through conferences.
Mathabatha argued that the processes and conduct within these conferences revealed serious “un-ANC” tendencies.
“This decision is motivated by the concerning misconduct and lack of ANC values that I have observed within the organisation in this province, particularly in relation to the processes towards and conduct within the conferences of the Vhembe and Waterberg regions,” he wrote.
Mathabatha said he could not stand by while such unethical practices occurred under his leadership.
“I always stand available to deliberate these issues further with the National Office Bearers of the ANC at their convenience and make myself available for any interviews.
Until then, I will step aside to allow the organisation to function without my involvement,” he added.
Internal Challenges in Limpopo
Mathabatha’s resignation ends years of leadership in the province and signals deeper internal challenges within the ANC’s Limpopo structures.
His exit comes as the party faces mounting pressure ahead of the 2026 local government elections.
At the same time, Polokwane Mayor John Mpe faces growing scrutiny over allegations of irregular tender awards and claims that he extended political and economic favours to foreign nationals.
The accusations have fuelled public concern and reignited debate about ethical governance within the ruling party.
Mayor Mpe remains in office despite the allegations, and authorities have not formally charged him with wrongdoing.
Is the ANC in Limpopo facing a deeper leadership crisis after Mathabatha’s sudden resignation?
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