Divisions over the candidacy of Eastern Cape Premier Makhenkesi Stofile and Mluleki George for the African National Congress’s provincial chairpersonship is believed to have led to the suspension of the OR Tambo region’s conference last weekend.
The conference was suspended despite the presence of party heavyweights Dumi- sani Makhaye, Tony Yengeni and Minister of Labour Membathisi Mdladlana.
The region had been disbanded in August after a meeting nearly ended in blows.
Party insiders say divisions have been sown along ideological lines as well as between supporters of Stofile and his challenger, George, who chairs the safety and security committee in Parliament.
However, ANC spokesperson Smuts Ngonyama said factionalism was no longer a problem in the region. The conference had to be suspended because several branches had not been registered. He said the region was likely to hold its conference this weekend.
Stofile is believed to be the favourite for the position. Party insiders say six of the seven regions are likely to support him, with only the Amathole region supporting George.
MEC for Finance and former trade unionist Enoch Godongwana is favoured for the deputy chairperson’s position. Thobile Mhlahlo, chairperson of the transport committee in the Eastern Cape legislature, is also contesting the position.
Current provincial secretary Humphrey Maxhegwana is likely to be re-elected.