Has Motsepe DisARMed Himself?

Is Patrice Motsepe distancing himself from a bid to become the leader of the African National Congress (ANC)?

This question arises from remarks he made at the African Rainbow Minerals (ARM) results presentation, where he is non-executive chairman, and reported on by MiningMX, an online publication focusing on the mining industry.

According to MiningMX Motsepe said: “As has always been our position, the best place for us to play and make that contribution is outside politics. I said this 20 years ago and I said it five years ago. The minute you run for votes, you deviate from the broader objectives and the broader benefit for all South Africans.”

He also spoke about the PM27 website, which was recently launched, and viewed by some as the beginning of a Motsepe campaign for ANC leader. Motsepe has not endorsed the site, however, and at the ARM presentation he said: “'PM27’ — that could also mean post meridian.” 

Speaking about his political ambitions Motsepe reportedly also said: “It’s false, it’s unfounded. I would never go and fund people to buy [campaign caps].”

However, Motsepe’s denials must be carefully read.

Motsepe does not explicitly say he is not planning a leadership run. He also does not distance himself from the PM27 website.

The lack of an outright denial indicates that Motsepe is leaving his options open, allowing him to maintain political flexibility without alienating potential supporters or appearing too eager.

The race for the next ANC leader remains wide open, with Motsepe continuing to be a frontrunner.