Johannesburg mayor and ANC regional chairperson Dada Morero is facing growing uncertainty over his political future, as the citys most influential branches prepare to cast decisive votes ahead of the partys much-anticipated regional conference.
Early internal surveys have suggested a dip in Moreros support in some parts of the region and the partys top provincial leadership, although several senior branch leaders who support him have rejected the polls as premature.
Most of the citys biggest ANC branches, including those in Soweto, Region D and key inner-city wards, have yet to sit and nominate their preferred candidates for regional leadership roles. Insiders say the outcome of those meetings will ultimately determine whether Morero retains control over the region or cedes ground to rising rival Loyiso Masuku, who enjoys the support of provincial and national leaders.
Despite the unfolding leadership contest, Morero appointed Masuku as the City of Johannesburgs member of the mayoral committee MMC for finance this week, entrusting her with one of the most powerful portfolios in the metro.
Morero had been holding on to the position, hoping to hand it to one of his allies.