Motsepe dismisses ANC presidency rumours: "I am not mad"

BILLIONAIRE Patrice Motsepe has once again put to rest speculation that he has political ambitions, making it clear that he has no intention of seeking the presidency of the ANC

Speaking at the South African National Editors Forum annual fundraising dinner at the Houghton Hotel in Johannesburg, Motsepe addressed growing rumours that he might replace President Cyril Ramaphosa as ANC leader. The event provided the mining billionaire with an opportunity to publicly clarify his stance on politics and leadership.

The speculation gained traction in 2022 when an ANC branch in Maandagshoek in Limpopo nominated Motsepe to contest the ANC presidency. At the time, the branch proposed that he join the race against Ramaphosa alongside senior figures like Zweli Mkhize and Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma. Ramaphosa went on to secure a second term as party president.

Motsepe, who is also the brother-in-law of President Ramaphosa, dismissed the idea.

“Five years ago, the last time I had the honour of being with this important institution, the same question came up,” Motsepe said. “Are you, or will you at some stage, go into politics? And the answer I gave them is the same I gave a few weeks ago. I am not mad.”

He elaborated that his rejection of politics did not mean he looked down on public service. “And the issue was, are you saying that politics is for mad people? I said I am not mad,” he added with a smile.

Motsepe said his contribution to the country did not require him to hold public office. “I do not have to enter into politics to make a contribution. What South Africa needs now, more than anything, is for all of us to come together and work together and focus on those issues that keep us united.”

He described himself as “conservative” and a loyal supporter of the ANC, which he referred to as the “Mandela party,” but said he was fully supportive of all democratic institutions and parties in South Africa.

“This country has incredible people from whom we will choose the right leadership, including the right president,” Motsepe said. “And I will, in my own humble way and with my family, continue to make a contribution.”

Addressing perceptions about his wealth and fitness to lead, Motsepe made light of the matter.

“I have never liked people who say we do not want a president who has knock knees,” he joked. “Now when I walk around and look at my knees, they are knocked all the time. So that rules me out.”

He also said he agreed with ANC Secretary General Fikile Mbalula, who once said that leading a political party was very different from running a football club.

“You obviously have not heard what Fikile Mbalula said about football and politics, and I agree with him,” Motsepe said.

He concluded by reiterating that his focus remains on business, philanthropy, and helping build a united South Africa.