Debate over duo's tussle for top post

There is a raging debate within the ANC Eastern Cape about the pending battle for dominance between party provincial chair Oscar Mabuyane and secretary Lulama Ngcukayitobi.

- Eric Naki

Insiders say Mabuyane, an ally of President Cyril Ramaphosa, is unlikely to contest the post of chair at the elective conference in 2026.

There is a suggestion that he be redeployed, opening the way for others.

"The idea of Mabuyane and Ngcukayitobi contesting each other is out."

"How do you challenge someone who is serving a second term already? What is important is to ask: who is going to succeed Oscar when his term ends?" said an Eastern Cape-based insider.

This leaves Ngcukayitobi the next strongest contender, but some express reservations, claiming he lacks charisma.