Billionaire businessman Patrice Motsepe has publicly rejected claims that he intends to pursue political office, distancing himself from speculation that he could contest the presidency of the African National Congress (ANC).
Reports circulating in political circles have suggested that Motsepe might emerge as a candidate to succeed his brother-in-law, Cyril Ramaphosa, when the party holds its next national elective conference.
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Speaking to shareholders of his mining company, African Rainbow Minerals, on Friday, Motsepe dismissed the claims and made it clear he has no intention of entering politics.
PM27 Campaign Rumours Linked To ANC Leadership Speculation
Motsepe has long maintained a relationship with the ANC, attending party events and making financial contributions. He has also donated to several other political parties.
In recent months, speculation intensified following the emergence of a campaign branded “PM27”, which appears to promote Motsepe as a potential future leader of the ANC. The campaign has reportedly produced T-shirts bearing the slogan, and a website — pm27.org.za — has also appeared online.
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Despite the campaign’s visibility, the businessman said he has no knowledge of the individuals responsible for the initiative.
“I ignore these things. It’s false, unfounded. I would never go and fund people to buy t-shirts. PM 27 could also mean post-meridian.”
Motsepe Says Campaign Aims To Tarnish His Name
Motsepe indicated that those behind the campaign could have political motives and suggested the effort may be intended to damage his reputation.
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“I ignore these things. It’s false, unfounded. I would never go and fund people to buy t-shirts. PM 27 could also mean post-meridian.”
He added that he believes the individuals responsible for the ‘PM27’ campaign are attempting to “tarnish” his name for their own political reasons.
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