By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
After nearly three years under the leadership of a regional task team, the African National Congress (ANC) in Ekurhuleni has finally elected its top leadership.
The newly elected Top 5 of the ANC in Ekurhuleni include Chair Nkosindiphile Doctor Xhakaza, Deputy Chair Jean Sethato, Secretary Jongizizwe Dlabathi, who was elected uncontested, Deputy Secretary Moiponi Mhlongo, and Treasurer Irvin Mohlala.
Xhakaza defeated Sello Sekhokho, the ANC’s former regional treasurer, who is subject of active corruption probes by the SIU and Hawks relating to Tembisa hospital.
In 2022, the party held an elective conference that elected Mzwandile Masina as regional chairperson, but the Gauteng High Court set aside the outcome.
This ruling nullified all decisions taken at the time, forcing the party to convene another conference.
Now, three years later, the conference has finally taken place and elected the ANC’s new office bearers.
NEC member Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni delivered a keynoted address on behalf of the NEC, highlighting the national party’s stance as delegates prepared to vote for regional leaders.
She stressed that the conference remains focused on renewal and service delivery.
“Our priority is unity and good governance, with programme-based actions that keep us connected to communities,” Ntshavheni said, framing the Ekurhuleni gathering within the NEC’s guidance and the party’s commitment to tangible community outcomes.
Xhakaza career in public service began in 2011 as a PR Councillor in Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality, where he later became the Deputy Chief Whip for the ANC Caucus. He is currently Executive Mayor of the City of Ekurhuleni.