Besani distances himself from a plot to oust Dukwana

Staff reporter

Bloemfontein – Factional battles in the Free State ANC have taken a new twist after a plot to oust Mxolisi Dukwana.

This follows news over the weekend linking Sibongile Besani, former ANC Provincial Secretary and current Head of Presidency being touted as a possible replacement for Mxolisi Dukwana, chairperson of the ANC and Premier as members of ANC in Lejweleputswa allege he is failing to implement party resolutions in government.

According to four sources in Lejweleputswa the meeting did happen and it’s a faction belonging to the Provincial Secretary, Polediso “50 000 jobs” Motsoeneng behind this.

A source who spoke on condition of anonymity said the party officials are divided and this is affecting service delivery.

“Unfortunately our top 5 is not united and it started with the preferred candidates ahead of the provincial conference where our provincial secretary, Polediso Motsoeneng and head of elections, Saki Mofokeng were contesting for the same position.

The impasse lasted till nominations when Fikile Mbalula, Secretary General called Saki and asked him to stand down.”

Prior to that he released a media statement sticking to his guns about contesting.

“LIES HAVE SHORT LEGS

Cdes, I am reliably informed that some Cdes are going around telling delegates that I am withdrawing from contesting as PS of the ANC in the upcoming Provincial Conference.

I am equally informed that, some Cdes we respect in the Province were tasked to engage me and they none of them have made contact with me to request an engagement.

I have not withdrawn nor have been engaged. This mischief is un ANC and its intention is to detract us from ensuring that we usher the ultimate renewal of the ANC of the Province towards 2024 National & Provincial Elections.

Lets remain vigilant. This factional and destructive tendency will not succeed.

By Saki Mokoena
Friday 20 January 2023”

In a Facebook post he took a swipe at Steve Tshabalala, fellow PEC member and chief of staff in the office of MEC of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation, Maki Mahasa.

Another source said this did not sit well with Motsoeneng and

A PEC member who attended a meeting on the 14 – 15 May 2023 said a report on Fateng Tsentsho which was aimed at tarnishing Mokoena was kicked out.

“There was a report that was presented to the PEC aimed at creating a cloud over comrade Saki but we rejected it, we know what’s at play here.”

Unconfirmed reports suggest the top 5 is divided into Dukwana, Makume and Mahlatsi in one faction while Motsoeneng and Leeto are leading another faction and there are already talks of who will become the Premier after national elections.

Besani, if the plan works will be tasked to steer the party leading to the 2024 elections.

Asked if he knew anything about this Besani said.

“It is the first time i hear of these purported plot. They have no basis and therefore cannot glorify them.

I was re-elected at national conference and therefore harboured no ambition or expectation to contest for PEC election.”

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