Delegates of the African National Congress (ANC) in Dr. Kenneth Kaunda region have elected Gaba Thithiba ka Qhele as their new regional chairperson during the 9th Regional Conference in Potchefstroom.
Zanele Mphafudi is the new deputy regional chairperson, while Pat Mthoa is elected as the regional secretary. Wanda Moilwa and Disebo Motaung are elected as the new deputy regional secretary and regional treasurer.
A group of disgruntled ANC members in the region filed court papers at the North West High Court in Mahikeng to challenge the legitimacy of the regional conference.
“This application, which is brought on a very urgent basis, concerns the 9th Elective Regional Conference of the ANC in respect of its Dr Kenneth Kaunda Region, which has been convened to take place on Saturday. 14 March 2026 and Sunday, 15 March 2026, in a manner and following a process that is not only inconsistent with the ANC’s Constitution but offends the democratic imperative.”
The matter was dismissed with costs before the conference starts.
Intense tension emerged on Saturday, 14 March, including allegations of assault, intimidation, and rigged branch processes, which led to a confrontation between delegates and deployees.
A source within the region confirmed that they have tried to resolve the matter internally but attempts were unsuccessful.
“In disregard of the process contemplated by the ANC Guidelines on BGMs, BBGMs and Regional, Provincial and National Conferences, which process, by itself, is inconsistent with the ANC’s Constitution.”
