JN Reporter

The African National Congress (ANC) in the Mangaung region is set to converge at Retiefkamp — about 20km outside Bloemfontein — for a crucial round of internal polls that could reshape the party’s local leadership landscape.

The much-anticipated gathering is expected to draw branch delegates from across the metro, as members prepare to elect new leaders and map the organisation’s direction ahead of upcoming political contests.

With factional tensions simmering beneath the surface, the Retiefkamp meeting — scheduled for 13 to 15 March 2026 — is likely to be closely watched and fiercely contested. Behind the scenes, political manoeuvring is already under way.

Sources indicate that Pitso is expected to contest a leadership position, despite reported grassroots support for another candidate. At the same time, regional spokesperson Ncamile Nxangisa is said to be under pressure from party members to enter the race for the top post, although he has not publicly declared his intentions.

Regional chairperson Lawrence Mathae is widely expected to seek a second term and could return unopposed if no challengers emerge before the conference.

Mathae, who also serves as Speaker of the Mangaung Metro Municipality, is understood to enjoy strong internal backing. Insiders say his campaign message will focus on unity, organisational renewal and improved service delivery, as the ANC works to rebuild public confidence ahead of the 2026 Local Government Elections.