Zuma has speculated ‘secret talks’ with under-pressure Supra

The Sowetan reported on Friday that former president Jacob Zuma travelled with his bodyguards to Mahikeng, North West, on Thursday – possibly to meet with his ally, the province’s premier Supra Mahumapelo.

There was speculation that Zuma was there to support the embattled premier as part of Zuma’s long-term plan to shore up support in the ANC as part of a “fightback strategy” against corruption allegations.

Zuma was spotted at the Mmabatho Palms Hotel just after midnight, according to the report, and stayed there until late afternoon.

It was confirmed that Zuma met with Bishop Daniel Matebetsi, while the meeting with Mahumapelo was mere speculation. Mahumapelo’s spokesperson denied that any such meeting had taken place.

Yesterday it was reported that the ANC in North West would not support some public servants demanding the removal of Mahumapelo as head of government, the party said on Thursday. They launched a “hands off Supra” campaign the same day.

On Tuesday, members of the National Education, Health and Allied Workers’ Union (Nehawu), the Democratic Nursing Organisation of SA (Denosa) and the Health and Other Services Personnel Trade Union of SA (Hospersa) marched to the provincial legislature demanding that Mahumapelo resign from his position as premier within 14 days.

Acting provincial secretary Sussana Dantjie said the ANC fully supports Mahumapelo.

On Monday, following its special provincial working committee, the ANC called on its members at the legislature to vote against a motion of no confidence — brought by the Economic Freedom Fighters — against Mahumapelo. The motion was scheduled to be debated on April 17.

“An agreement was reached that all our deployees must oppose and defeat the motion like we normally do as the ANC throughout the country. The meeting held that the ANC cannot allow opposition parties to set the agenda for us. We must reassert the African National Congress as the leader of society.”