The African National Congress (ANC) has confirmed a leadership shift in its Western Cape structures following the resignation of Ebrahim Rasool from his role as the party’s provincial convener.
The announcement was made by ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula during a briefing after the party’s National Working Committee meeting. He revealed that Jerimia Thuynsma, a pastor, activist, and former City of Cape Town councillor from Mitchells Plain, will assume the position.
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Rasool’s departure comes less than two weeks after Mbalula announced a reconfiguration of the ANC’s Western Cape Provincial Task Team (PTT).
ANC Reveals Reason Behind Ebrahim Rasool ’s Exit
Mbalula dismissed suggestions of internal friction, noting that Rasool remained a committed member of the organisation but could not continue due to other professional obligations.
“Rasool has said to me, ‘SG, I will die black, green and gold. Assign me other tasks, I will always be there – but the Western Cape needs someone who can give 24/7 dedication, and I can’t give you half,’” Mbalula said.
Thuynsma, who accepted the appointment earlier this week, brings extensive civic and political experience to the role.
Thuynsma’s Appointment Ahead of 2026 Elections
Mbalula expressed confidence in Thuynsma’s ability to strengthen the party’s footprint in the province, traditionally dominated by the Democratic Alliance (DA).
“He has previously worked with the SACP, COSATU, and the ANC Youth Movement, and has also served on the City of Cape Town council,” Mbalula said. “He’s an all-rounder with accolades, like Alderman, and we believe he’s an activist with energy and commitment. We’re happy with him.”
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Thuynsma’s appointment forms part of the ANC’s broader push to consolidate its provincial structures and improve organisational capacity ahead of the 2026 municipal elections. He is expected to be sworn in before the end of the week.
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Rasool’s long-standing political career includes serving as South Africa’s ambassador to the United States from 2010 to 2015 and again in 2025, as well as a term as Western Cape premier from 2004 to 2008.
On 14 March 2025, while serving as ambassador, Rasool was declared persona non grata by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio after criticising the Donald Trump administration and was subsequently expelled from the country.
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