ANC branch members in the Moses Kotane subregion of the North West have filed a formal complaint alleging systemic manipulation of candidate nomination processes ahead of upcoming polls. The complainants accuse the acting Bojanala regional secretary, Thapelo Thoboke, of abusing his office to secure his own placement on the party’s candidate list.
Investigation Into Alleged Irregularities
According to the formal complaint, Thoboke allegedly withheld critical QR codes required for branch annual general meetings and coerced local branches into endorsing his candidacy. While these allegations regarding the manipulation of nomination lists remain unverified, complainants have requested an immediate probe by an election committee led by former deputy president Kgalema Motlanthe.
The challenges confronting the ANC candidate selection process are not isolated to one municipality or a single branch.
Speaking to media, ANC Youth League regional secretary Kagiso Kgabo underscored the frustration among party members regarding internal procedures. The allegations follow a pattern of instability in the province, which has faced repeated disputes over candidate selections dating back to the 2021 local government elections.
Historical Context And Political Implications
The North West has long been characterised by internal factional battles, specifically regarding the practice of ‘parachuting’ candidates into positions against the wishes of branch members. Disputes over the validity of nomination lists saw the establishment of a dedicated investigation committee in June 2023 to review historical concerns of administrative tampering.
As these latest claims continue to circulate within party circles, observers note that persistent administrative instability remains a significant threat to the party’s electoral prospects. Further developments are expected as the party’s national leadership determines whether to initiate the requested investigation into the Moses Kotane subregion’s voting procedures.