In a shocking display of divisiveness, former ANC member Phapano Phasha has launched a xenophobic attack on the newly elected leaders of Johannesburg’s Regional Executive Committee (REC), igniting a firestorm of controversy within the party. But here’s where it gets controversial: Phasha’s claims, which question the legitimacy of leaders based on their origins, have been slammed by ANC Nazomdeni Branch Secretary Steve Mahopo as not only historically ignorant but also a betrayal of the ANC’s core values. And this is the part most people miss: this dispute comes just days after Loyiso Masuku made history as the first woman to chair the ANC in Johannesburg, defeating incumbent Dada Morero in a fiercely contested election. This clash has exposed deep factional rifts within the ANC’s Johannesburg region, raising serious concerns about unity as the party gears up for the 2026 local elections.
Mahopo’s passionate defense highlights Johannesburg’s rich migrant heritage, arguing that Phasha’s nativist rhetoric ignores the city’s roots and the ANC’s long-standing commitment to inclusive leadership. Here’s the kicker: As Johannesburg grapples with allegations of corruption and governance failures, this internal battle tests the party’s ability to unite behind its elected leaders and focus on delivering services to all residents. But is the ANC up to the challenge?
The Spark: Phapano Phasha’s Divisive Accusations
Phapano Phasha, a former ANC Ward 97 branch member known for her role in protests against service delivery failures, unleashed her criticism following the regional conference results. She controversially argued that leaders like Masuku must be ‘originally’ from Johannesburg to hold office, implying that outsiders are illegitimate. Mahopo dismissed these claims as ‘unwarranted mudslinging,’ rooted in exclusionary politics that contradict the ANC’s ethos. Bold question: Is Phasha’s stance a reflection of factional bitterness, or does it expose deeper issues within the party?
Phasha’s comments seem fueled by her support for Morero and her resentment over the election outcome. Mahopo pointed out that even Morero accepted the results gracefully, congratulating Masuku—a stark contrast to Phasha, who has since left the party. Mahopo suggested her defection reveals personal motives rather than principled disagreement, aimed at undermining the elected leadership. Food for thought: Does Phasha’s exit signal a broader trend of disunity within the ANC?
Johannesburg’s Migrant Legacy: A Powerful Rebuttal
Mahopo’s response dives deep into Johannesburg’s history to dismantle Phasha’s nativist arguments. He reminds us that the ‘City of Gold’ was built on migration following the 1886 gold rush, with laborers coming from across Southern Africa and beyond. Provocative point: To question a leader’s legitimacy based on ancestry in this city is to question the legitimacy of every family that calls it home—including, likely, Phasha’s own. Mahopo argues this rhetoric invents a ‘nativist purity’ that never existed, ignoring the collective sacrifice that shaped Johannesburg.
Expanding on the ANC’s legacy, Mahopo highlights how revered leaders like Nelson Mandela, Oliver Tambo, and Winnie Madikizela-Mandela were often considered ‘outsiders.’ Yet, their origins were never questioned. Bold statement: Imposing a provincialist test today dishonors these giants and fragments the ANC’s vision of a national home for all. Question for you: Should leadership be judged by origin or by commitment and service?
Targeted Smear Against Loyiso Masuku: Character Assassination?
Mahopo reserved his strongest criticism for Phasha’s attacks on Masuku, calling them ‘baseless and malicious.’ He accused Phasha of acting as judge, jury, and executioner without evidence, violating the presumption of innocence in South Africa’s democracy. Masuku’s ANC journey in Johannesburg is one of dedicated service, from her role as ANC Youth League Regional Secretary to her two terms as Deputy Regional Secretary. Key point: The scrutiny only arose when her support threatened certain factions. Controversial interpretation: Are these attacks a cynical attempt to discredit a rising leader?
Masuku’s recent victory, securing 543 votes against Morero’s 484, was a democratic mandate supported by 135 branches. Yet, Phasha’s accusations persist, despite Masuku being cleared of past controversies, including a PPE scandal. Final thought: Is this a smear campaign, or a legitimate critique? Weigh in below.
Johannesburg Belongs to All: Echoing the Freedom Charter
Mahopo concluded by invoking the Freedom Charter’s timeless principle: ‘South Africa belongs to all who live in it.’ By extension, Johannesburg belongs to all who contribute to it. The newly elected REC, he argued, embodies this cosmopolitan spirit. Call to action: Instead of divisive rhetoric, let’s focus on real issues like service delivery, unemployment, and inequality. Provocative question: Can the ANC rise above factionalism and unite for the greater good? Share your thoughts in the comments.
Broader Context: Factionalism and the ANC’s Johannesburg Challenges
This dispute unfolds amid the ANC’s internal struggles in Gauteng, where the party lost its majority in 2024, leading to coalitions. Johannesburg faces governance crises, including financial mismanagement, often blamed on flawed cadre deployment. Masuku’s victory is seen as a blow to pro-GNU factions, with her anti-coalition stance resonating with branches. Bold prediction: Will this internal strife derail the ANC’s 2026 election efforts? Let us know what you think.
