John Mpe Re-elected Unopposed as ANC Peter Mokaba Chair
The ANC’s Peter Mokaba Regional Conference in Polokwane descended into chaos on May 22, 2025, as John Mpe was re-elected unopposed for a third term as chairperson. The event was marred by violent clashes, with delegates hurling chairs and tablecloths, and allegations of irregularities, including the presence of “bogus” delegates. Despite these disruptions, the conference proceeded, electing Mpe and his slate uncontested.
- John Mpe was re-elected unopposed as chairperson of the ANC’s Peter Mokaba Region.
- The conference was marred by violent clashes and allegations of irregularities.
- Concerns were raised about the legitimacy of the process and the inclusion of “bogus” delegates.
Polokwane, Limpopo – John Mpe has been re-elected unopposed as chairperson of the ANC’s Peter Mokaba Region for a third term during a highly contentious elective conference held on Wednesday, May 22, 2025, at the Peter Mokaba Sports Complex.
The re-election took place amid violent scenes and allegations of procedural irregularities, with reports indicating police had to intervene during clashes among delegates.
The newly elected top five leaders of the Regional Executive Committee (REC) are:
- Chairperson: John Mpe
- Deputy Chairperson: Edward Paya
- Secretary: Lesiba Matsemela
- Deputy Secretary: Kholofelo Lehong
- Treasurer: Merriam Molala
Despite the unopposed nature of the elections, tensions flared during the conference.
Videos and images shared on social media depicted chairs being thrown, scuffles breaking out, and law enforcement being called to restore order.
Thabo Mabotja, a delegate who represented a faction opposed to Mpe, voiced concerns over the legitimacy of the conference.
He alleged that the event did not meet quorum requirements and that “bogus delegates” had been permitted to participate.
“This conference does not meet the quorum and it’s filled with bogus delegates. We will be writing to the ANC provincial and national structures to declare it null and void,” Mabotja said
ALSO READ : DA Limpopo Demands Urgent Meeting With Great North Transport
The conference had been postponed multiple times leading up to the May 22 gathering.
The delays were caused by unresolved branch disputes and other organizational challenges.
The ANC’s National Dispute Resolution Committee (NDRC) had been tasked with resolving these issues in time for the event.
Initially, there had been expectations of a leadership contest between Mpe and Mamedupi Teffo, the ANC Women’s League Provincial Chairperson and Executive Mayor of Capricorn District Municipality. However, Teffo did not stand for nomination, leaving Mpe to secure the chair uncontested.
The ANC Peter Mokaba Region is one of the largest and most influential in Limpopo, encompassing the provincial capital Polokwane.