By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The High Court in Polokwane, Limpopo has dismissed an urgent application to interdict the provincial elective conference taking place this weekend.
The application also seeks to compel disqualified branches to take part at the conference.
The case was brought by disgruntled member Basil Mabasa, who questioned the legitimacy of the digital device used to verify a Branch General Meeting in the Collins Chabane region.
Mabasa claims he has failed to resolve the matter through ANC internal dispute resolution mechanisms.
As a result, his branch unanimously resolved to approach the court for urgent intervention.
He said the interdict application passes the urgency test because the disputed matters directly affect the validity of delegate mandates for the provincial conference.
Acting Judge Tshifhiwa Tshivhase delivered the judgment on Friday morning.
“As such, this court came to the conclusion that there is no case made out by the applicant on urgency in terms of Rule 612. The application is struck off for the lack of urgency. Each party will pay its own cost.”
Fullview understands that ANC structures in Limpopo have forged a “unity of convenience” slate that will see the top five positions go uncontested, allowing Dr Phophi Ramathuba to take the helm uncontested, replacing outgoing provincial chair Stanley Mathabatha.
ANC Limpopo secretary Reuben Madadzhe said preparations are on track, with branch participation increasing from about 440 in 2022 to 568 this year.
He described this as historic, adding that all five regions have more than 145 delegates, which will enhance representation.
Madadzhe declined to comment on reports of a ‘unity slate’ or his possible re-election, saying he would not compromise his position.
The party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) member and second Deputy Secretary General Maropene Ramokgopa will deliver the opening address at the 11th ANC Limpopo Provincial Conference.
Meanwhile Eastern Cape conference appears to be continuing – despite an interim court order. The party is also expected to file an application for leave to appeal, while the applicants’ legal team has indicated it may pursue contempt of court proceedings.
Elsewhere delegates in Mpumalanga are expected to elect new provincial leadership as the conference enters its second day at the Mbombela Stadium. ANC provincial chairperson Mandla Ndlovu and other senior leaders are expected to retain their positions.