Tipped for re-election, unopposed
Other potentials still considering contesting
Baseless corruption allegations rejected
By JN Reporter
Free State ANC’s Mangaung regional chairperson, Lawrence Mathae, is reportedly targeting a second term as the party’s regional head, with high prospects of him being re-elected unopposed as no challengers have yet emerged ahead of the upcoming regional elections.
It is widely anticipated that Mathae, who is also the current Speaker of Mangaung Metro Municipality (MMM), to continue as regional chairperson due to the strong signals of internal support he enjoys within the organisation.
According to a senior regional leader, who requested not to be named, Mathae’s campaign will hinge on promises of unity, renewal, and stronger service delivery. These are seen as key themes as the party seeks to regain public trust ahead of the 2026 local government elections.
“It is no secret that Comrade Chair has been earmarked for a smooth return to office…We discussed this a long time ago. He will be supported by his current deputy, Comrade Vusi Soqaga,” said the anonymous senior leader on Monday.
However, according to the source, despite receiving strong support from the masses, the current regional secretary Sabelo Pitso is expected to also raise his hand and contest for the position. Meanwhile the party’s regional spokesperson Ncamile Nxangisa is rumoured to be receiving a push from party members in the corridors to also enter the race for the coveted top position, despite not showing any interest yet.
Current deputy regional secretary Lulama Titi-Odili is reportedly eyeing the position of deputy chair that is currently held by Soqaga. However, it is also believed she will also vie to retain her current position against Nthabiseng Jonas, Dineo Motlhabane and Logan Kruger. All the abovementioned contender, excluding Titi-Odili, are expected to also contend again for the treasurer position.
Last year, Mathae faced allegations of corruption alongside his wife, Maqueen Letsoha-Mathae, who is the current Free State Premier. The couple was accused by a local businessman and CEO of New Beginnings, Patrick Phuti, of receiving substantial payments and lavish gifts from him last year.
Phuti made the alleged secret dealings public after his contract was terminated. Both Mathae and the Premier have since strongly denied the allegations, dismissing them as malicious and unfounded.
According to a highly placed source within the party, the allegations have no bearing on either comrade, as no formal charges have been brought against them.
“Those allegations have not been tested in any court of law and will have no bearing on their organisational work. Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula has consistently emphasised that the ‘step-aside rule’ only applies to members who have been formally charged or are appearing in court. Once you are arrested or in court, the rule applies. “The ANC’s step-aside rule requires members who face criminal charges to voluntarily step aside from their party and public duties to protect the party’s image. In this case, both the chairperson and the premier do not meet those criteria,” added the source.
Last week, Journal News Sunday edition reported that ANC provincial spokesperson, Thabo Meeko dismissed as rumours claims that party members have begun campaigning for leadership positions.
“Those things are nothing but rumours spread by people with nothing better to do, individuals who aim to derail our focus,” Meeko said. “The ANC is currently concentrating on securing a decisive victory in the upcoming Local Government Elections and has not opened campaigns for leadership positions.”
However, this publication has also learned that campaigning for leadership positions has extended beyond the Mangaung region, with other regions such as Thabo Mofutsanyana and Lejweleputswa following suit. Their respective chairpersons, Thabo Mokoena and Xolile Toki, are both reported to be seeking re-election when regional conferences take place in November.
