As South Africa’s political succession debate intensifies ahead of President Cyril Ramaphosa’s expected exit in 2029, billionaire businessman Tokyo Sexwale is increasingly being linked to conversations about the country’s future leadership and political direction.
This time, former anti-apartheid activist and mining magnate Tokyo Sexwale has emerged in discussions ahead of the ANC’s crucial 2027 leadership conference.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to complete his current and constitutionally final presidential term in 2029, following his re-election in June 2024 for a second full five-year term.
Sexwale addressed the growing speculation during an interview on the SMWX podcast, where he responded to reports suggesting that ANC structures in KwaZulu-Natal were pushing for his return to frontline party leadership.
Last month, the Mail & Guardian reported that Sexwale had emerged as a possible contender to succeed Ramaphosa, with internal ANC lobbying efforts already underway.
