15/12/2025
THE TLANGI–AARON MOMENT THAT QUIETLY EXPOSED FACTIONS IN ANC TSHWANE
The conference has spoken through its delegates.
The votes are done.
But the political lessons remain.
Mabopane Daily News
The ANC Greater Tshwane Regional Conference delivered unity at the top — but beneath the applause, it also revealed subtle factional lines, most clearly in the contest between Cllr Tlangi Mogale and Aaron Maluleka for the Deputy Regional Chairperson position.
When Tlangi Mogale was nominated for Regional Chairperson, she declined with humility, openly backing Eugene “Bonzo” Modise. The hall erupted in applause — a response not only to Modise, but to what delegates recognised as political maturity and strategic discipline.
That moment set the tone.
Later, when Mogale accepted the nomination for Deputy Chairperson, she did so with confidence, composure, and pride. The reaction from delegates suggested that many already viewed her rise as both earned and timely — and for some, symbolic of a breakthrough moment for women in ANC Tshwane leadership.
By the time Aaron Maluleka accepted the same nomination, the political mood was clear. Mogale’s support in the hall was visible, her acceptance warmly received.
This is where questions naturally arise — not as personal attacks, but as political analysis:
1. Was the contest meant to prevent an unopposed outcome rather than to secure victory?
2. Was it an attempt to ensure the position was not handed on a “silver platter”?
Or 3. did Maluleka genuinely believe he could still win, despite the evident momentum?
In politics, timing is as important as ambition.
Many delegates felt this was a moment where restraint might have carried more weight than contestation.
A MISSED OPPORTUNITY FOR SYMBOLIC UNITY
For observers, this was also a gender moment. Mogale stood poised to become the first female Deputy Chairperson in ANC Tshwane — a moment that could have been collectively celebrated.
Some believe Maluleka could have:
Declined the nomination
Publicly supported Mogale
Elevated the moment into one of unity, dignity, and progressive leadership
Instead, the contest proceeded — a decision some viewed as avoidable, given the clear delegate sentiment.
(Optics Matter)
Politics is also about what is seen.
Videos circulating from the conference show:
Mogale accepting her nomination with visible confidence
Maluleka’s body language during his acceptance appearing restrained and unenthusiastic, at least to some observers
Whether intentional or not, such moments shape perception — and perception shapes political narratives.
Following the conference, Maluleka shared a single Facebook post featuring a group photo of all Top 5 leaders.
Notably, there was no individual post congratulating Mogale on her election.
While the post does acknowledge collective leadership, its general nature did little to dispel perceptions of lingering discomfort, especially given the historic significance of Mogale’s victory.
What emerged was not open division, but contrasting political instincts:
Mogale demonstrated humility first, confidence later
Maluleka chose contest where others expected consolidation,
The conference outcome was decisive,
But the political lessons are still unfolding.
The Real Question:
The key question now is not about who won or lost —
the delegates have spoken.
It is this:
Does ANC Tshwane reward leaders who read the moment, or those who test it — even when unity is already visible?
That answer will shape the organisation far beyond this conference.
