ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula recently visited the Bapedi Nation in Limpopo as part of the party's efforts to secure endorsements from traditional leaders ahead of the local government elections. Mbalula, accompanied by ANC Youth League president Collen Malatji and provincial secretary Reuben Madadzhe, received a warm welcome from Queen Leganabatho II Thulare. The Bapedi Nation has authority over 5 million people, approximately 10% of South Africa's population.
During his visit, Mbalula gifted Queen Thulare five live cows, fulfilling a promise made during her birthday celebration. He expressed his connection to the Bapedi royal house, stating that he considered it the home of the ANC. Mbalula, who hails from the Jola clan, jokingly referred to himself as a Hlabirwa, a clan name linked to Bapedi royalty. The ANC has been on a charm offensive with royal houses and churches since launching its manifesto in August.
The ANC's focus on traditional leadership in this election is a bid to regain lost support in various municipalities. In its 2026 local government elections manifesto, the ANC directs its mayors to convene mayor and traditional authority forums within 100 days after elections. These forums will sign a compact to hold imbizos twice a year with communities. Mbalula emphasized that the ANC is an organization of God and ancestors.
Queen Thulare expressed her excitement to receive a courtesy visit from a high-ranking ANC leader. She attributed the rain that fell during Mbalula's visit to God's blessings. In return, she gifted Mbalula with traditional regalia, including leopard skin, symbolizing honor, courage, and distinguished service. The regalia is typically worn by senior regiments of the Bapedi people.
According to Bapedi Nation Prince Mampuru Sekwati, the regalia and ceremonial staff adorned with genuine leopard skin represent the honor of a warrior and the esteem in which the recipient is held. Prince Sekwati noted that Mbalula's visit and gift of cattle to Queen Thulare demonstrate genuine respect for traditional leadership. The ANC and traditional leaders share a long history, and the relationship is being strengthened.
Mbalula's visit is also seen as an attempt to regain the trust of the Zulu Nation King Misuzulu Zulu ka Zwelithini, who enjoys close ties with the Bapedi Nation. The two royal houses are working towards signing a memorandum of understanding that covers mineral resources and land control. The draft MOU, seen by the Sunday Times, outlines an agreement to tighten control over minerals and land.
The ANC's efforts to strengthen its relationship with traditional leaders are crucial in the lead-up to the local government elections. The party's manifesto emphasizes the importance of collaboration with traditional authorities. Mbalula's visit to the Bapedi Nation is a significant step in this direction. The ANC's ability to secure endorsements from influential traditional leaders may impact its performance in the elections.
Key points
- ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula visits Bapedi Nation in Limpopo to seek endorsement ahead of local polls.
- The Bapedi Nation has authority over 5 million people, approximately 10% of South Africa's population.
- The ANC and Bapedi Nation are working towards a memorandum of understanding on mineral resources and land control.
