Mantashe tired of carrying bags, wants to lead ANC

Mantashe told a crowd of SACP supporters and members that he did not intend on being a ‘bag carrier’ for long, according to Dispatch Live.

“We’re not runners of a certain candidate, but leaders of the movement,” Mantashe said. “We have a right to be candidates ourselves. We are not bag carriers of anyone.”

Mantashe’s surprising declaration comes in the wake of news that the women’s league will be backing AU chairperson Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma, while president Jacob Zuma has endorsed her for president, saying the ANC is ready for a woman leader.

Baleka Mbete and Cyril Ramaphosa have also given interviews, stating they are available and ready for nomination for the country’s top job.

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The Mail and Guardian reports ANC structures have been told to stop discussing succession. This hasn’t stopped provincial leaders from expressing their preferences, which is a strong indication of how the provinces may vote during the elective conference.

While it was understood the Free State under Ace Magashule supported Dlamini Zuma’s bid, it has become apparent that Magashule’s deputy, Thabo Manyoni, believes Ramaphosa should become president in line with the ANC’s history.

In KwaZulu-Natal former premier Senzo Mchunu is campaigning for Ramaphosa, while the ANCYL wants Dlamini-Zuma and provincial secretary Sihle Zikalalala prefers ANC treasurer-general Zweli Mkhize.

In Limpopo, ANC chair and premier Stan Mathabatha, whose position is under threat, is said to support Ramaphosa, while provincial secretary Knocks Seabi is standing behind Dlamini-Zuma.

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