Presidency
Billionaire Patrice Motsepe has again denied having political ambitions, stating he has no intention of contesting the ANC presidency. Speaking at the SANEF dinner in Johannesburg, he said he doesn’t need to enter politics to serve South Africa, joking, “I am not mad,” and reaffirming his focus on business and unity.
Billionaire businessman Patrice Motsepe has once again dismissed rumours that he harbours political ambitions, reaffirming that he has no desire to lead the African National Congress (ANC) or pursue the presidency.
Speaking at the South African National Editors Forum (SANEF) annual fundraising dinner at the Houghton Hotel in Johannesburg, Motsepe directly addressed renewed speculation that he could replace President Cyril Ramaphosa as ANC leader. The event gave the mining magnate an opportunity to set the record straight once and for all.
Talk of a possible political bid first gained traction in 2022, when an ANC branch in Maandagshoek, Limpopo, nominated Motsepe to contest the ANC presidency. The branch suggested that he join the race against Ramaphosa alongside Zweli Mkhize and Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma. Ramaphosa later secured a second term as ANC president, but the whispers around Motsepe’s potential candidacy persisted.
Motsepe, who is also President Ramaphosa’s brother-in-law, dismissed the notion with characteristic humour.
“Five years ago, when I last spoke at this forum, I was asked the same question, whether I would ever go into politics,” he said. “My answer then is the same as now: I am not mad.”
He clarified that his refusal to enter politics does not stem from disdain for public service.
“Some asked if I was suggesting that politics is for mad people,” he added with a laugh. “That’s not what I meant. I simply know where my strengths lie.”
Motsepe emphasized that one does not need to hold political office to make a meaningful contribution to South Africa.
“I don’t need to be in politics to serve my country,” he said. “What South Africa needs most right now is unity, all of us working together to tackle the challenges that affect us all.”
Describing himself as a conservative and lifelong supporter of the ANC, which he fondly called the Mandela party, Motsepe stressed his respect for all democratic institutions and political parties across the country.
“South Africa is full of capable people from whom we will choose the right leaders, including the right president,” he said. “As for me, my family and I will continue to contribute in our own way.”
Addressing perceptions around his wealth and suitability for leadership, Motsepe joked about his appearance:
“I’ve heard people say we don’t want a president with knock knees,” he quipped. “Well, I looked at my knees, they’re definitely knocked. So that rules me out!”
He also echoed ANC Secretary General Fikile Mbalula’s sentiments that running a political party is nothing like running a football club, a reference to Motsepe’s role as President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and former Mamelodi Sundowns owner.
“Fikile was right,” Motsepe said. “Politics and football are worlds apart.”
Motsepe closed his remarks by reaffirming his commitment to business, philanthropy, and national unity.
“My focus remains on helping build a South Africa that works, a South Africa that unites its people and uplifts its communities,” he concluded.
