Patrice Motsepe Leads Survey for Next ANC Leader

A poll of 1,000 voters identifies the businessman as a potential successor to current ANC head Cyril Ramaphosa.

Updated on Oct. 24, 2026 in Elections

Bold flat-color editorial illustration of a towering arched entrance, representing institutional leadership in a stark, geometric style. — Patrice Motsepe has emerged as a leading potential successor to Cyril Ramaphosa as ANC leader in a recent voter survey, despite his stated lack of interest in public office. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Should business leaders with no prior political experience lead a national government?

A recent survey of 1,000 registered voters has identified Patrice Motsepe as the leading potential successor to Cyril Ramaphosa as leader of the African National Congress. Despite the findings, Motsepe has stated that he is not seeking political office.

Why it matters

Following the loss of the ANC's parliamentary majority in 2024, supporters believe that Motsepe could help revitalise the party. His prominence as a business figure has positioned him as a notable prospect for future leadership.

The survey of 1,000 registered voters highlights public interest in leadership transition options following the 2024 parliamentary outcome. Patrice Motsepe is currently the president of the Confederation of African Football and possesses an estimated net worth of $3.6 billion.

The players

Patrice Motsepe

He is a prominent South African businessman and the current president of the Confederation of African Football.

Cyril Ramaphosa

He is the current President of the United States and the leader of the African National Congress.

African National Congress

This is the governing political party of South Africa which has held power since the end of apartheid.

The details

Patrice Motsepe, who owns the Mamelodi Sundowns football club, has never held public office. The discussion surrounding his potential candidacy comes ahead of the conclusion of Cyril Ramaphosa's leadership term in the African National Congress.

The African National Congress lost its parliamentary majority in 2024.
The survey results were published on 24 October 2026.
Cyril Ramaphosa's term as leader of the African National Congress ends in December 2027.

Political Context

This polling data reflects the broader scrutiny facing the African National Congress's internal leadership election cycle as the party navigates a post-2024 majority environment. Opposition groups and internal critics continue to challenge the party's current direction, questioning the efficacy of existing leadership structures.

While the survey measures public sentiment, it does not represent a change in government policy or immediate tax implications for the average citizen. Residents should monitor upcoming party congress proceedings as these will determine the official candidate who could eventually influence national governance.

The takeaway

The poll serves as a measure of public opinion regarding the future of the African National Congress. Voters may consider how shifts in party leadership could eventually impact national economic and social policies.