ANC appoints Amos Masondo to lead Gauteng restructuring amid electoral decline

ANC appoints Amos Masondo to lead Gauteng restructuring amid electoral decline! In an effort to rebuild its presence in Gauteng following its poor performance in last year’s elections, the African National Congress (ANC) has appointed former Johannesburg mayor Amos Masondo to lead the party’s Provincial Task Team (PTT).

The PTT replaces the Provincial Executive Committee (PEC) and is expected to play a crucial role in restructuring the ANC’s leadership and regaining support in the province.

Masondo Takes the Helm in Gauteng

Masondo has been named the convenor of the PTT, a position that places him at the forefront of the ANC’s efforts to strengthen its political grip in Gauteng.

The decision was formally announced by ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula during a media briefing in Midrand on Wednesday.

Amos Masondo

Alongside Masondo, former ANC Gauteng Chairperson Panyaza Lesufi has been appointed co-convenor of the PTT, ensuring a joint leadership approach to tackling the party’s recent electoral setbacks.

Leadership Changes and Political Strategy

The ANC’s leadership restructuring follows its declining performance in Gauteng, where it failed to secure an outright majority in the 2024 general elections.

This shift in leadership is a strategic move to address the party’s loss of voter confidence and prepare for the 2026 local government elections.

According to Mbalula, the newly restructured leadership must focus on recovering lost ground to ensure that the ANC remains the dominant political force in the province.

“Preparations for the 2026 local government elections will be a key focus, with the objective of recovering lost ground and ensuring the ANC remains at the centre of government,” he said.

Hope Papo Returns as Provincial Coordinator

In addition to the appointment of Masondo and Lesufi, the ANC has also brought back Hope Papo as the Provincial Coordinator.

Papo, who previously served as the ANC’s provincial secretary in Gauteng, is expected to play a critical role in managing party structures and ensuring effective political organization at the provincial level.

His return signifies the party’s intent to leverage experienced leadership in its effort to regain public trust and strengthen its electoral base.

A Strategic Move for the ANC

The decision to revamp the ANC’s leadership in Gauteng is part of a broader national strategy to reposition the party ahead of the 2026 and 2029 elections.

Gauteng remains one of South Africa’s most politically contested provinces, with growing opposition parties such as the Democratic Alliance (DA), Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), and newly formed parties challenging the ANC’s dominance.

With declining voter support, the ANC is under immense pressure to rebuild its influence and address internal divisions that have weakened its governance.

The new leadership team will be expected to work closely with grassroots structures, engage with communities, and drive policy changes that resonate with voters.

ANC Reshuffles Leadership in KwaZulu-Natal

The Gauteng leadership shake-up comes just a day after the ANC announced major changes to its leadership structure in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN).

This indicates a nationwide restructuring effort aimed at stabilizing the party in key provinces where it has experienced significant electoral setbacks.

Both Gauteng and KZN have been historical strongholds for the ANC but have seen a decline in support in recent years.

By restructuring leadership teams, the ANC is attempting to revive its political influence and improve governance performance to attract disillusioned voters.

Looking Ahead: The Road to 2026 Elections

As the ANC gears up for the 2026 municipal elections, the newly formed Provincial Task Team in Gauteng has a daunting challenge ahead.

With Masondo, Lesufi, and Papo at the helm, the party hopes to restore its political dominance by addressing voter concerns, improving service delivery, and regaining public trust.

The next two years will be pivotal for the ANC as it seeks to rebuild its support base and strengthen its position ahead of the next national election cycle.