Leadership shake-up looms at AP
Tsaone Basimanebotlhe | Thursday June 12, 2025 11:01
The recently concluded Women and Youth Leagues elective congresses have served as a litmus test for what could unfold at the upcoming gathering. If the events are anything to go by, some Cabinet ministers from the AP who also hold key party positions may find themselves facing unprecedented challenges to their leadership roles. Only the party president who is also State Vice President Ndaba Gaolatlhe and party vice president Wynter Mmolotsi will not be challenged. During both the youth and women's congresses, a notable shift in sentiment was observed. Members openly expressed their frustration and dissatisfaction with the dual roles being held by certain party leaders. Their message was clear; those who are already entrusted with high-level government responsibilities should make way for others to take the reins within the party. One major point of contention amongst delegates was the concern over time and availability.
According to several members, the day-to-day running of the party has suffered because some leaders are too occupied with their ministerial duties to effectively fulfill their party obligations. They argue that the growing size and complexity of the AP demand committed leadership that can be physically and mentally present throughout the week, not just during high-profile events. This very sentiment, in fact, played a pivotal role in the downfall of former AP Women's League president, Helen Manyeneng. Despite her popularity and past contributions to the party, Manyeneng was unable to secure her position during the recent congress. Members were vocal in pointing out that her responsibilities as Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly left her little room to lead the Women's League effectively. To them, holding both positions was simply unsustainable and counterproductive. A party insider, who spoke on condition of anonymity, emphasised the urgency of the situation. The source revealed that many grassroots members feel that if new recruits join the AP and encounter weak or inactive structures, it leaves the party vulnerable to infiltration and manipulation. 'We need strong structures and strong party leadership that is always available.
Ministers are busy and some are not easily accessible,' an insider said. 'Serowe is going to be a game changer. Some Members of Parliament have even forgotten the party. Only a few showed up to the congresses held over the weekend,' further said the insider. These developments signal that the upcoming Serowe congress could usher in a new era for the AP, one where accessibility, presence, and grassroots engagement outweigh titles and seniority. With growing concerns about the health and resilience of the party’s internal systems, the congress may become a critical moment of reckoning for those currently juggling multiple roles. On Sunday, party chairperson Pius Mokgware addressed some of these concerns in an interview. He said the AP is committed to building robust internal structures that will support long-term growth and functionality. 'As you know, the AP is an affiliate of the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC). It has to be strong. The UDC, as a ruling party, needs stronger affiliates if it is to win the 2029 General Election,' Mokgware said. He pointed out that as the party continues to attract new members, it must provide them with clarity and stability. “They need to find solid structures that clearly outline our expectations,” he said. Furthermore, Mokgware took the opportunity to highlight what makes the AP culturally distinct from other political entities. “We believe in peace and party stability. These are core values that define the AP,” he said.
According to him, the party deliberately avoids forming divisive lobby lists, which often breed internal conflict and undermine unity. Instead, he said the AP promotes a culture of democratic openness, encouraging members to engage in transparent and fair campaigning during internal elections. However, Mokgware also issued a word of caution. He acknowledged the growing risks of political infiltration and advised party members to remain vigilant, especially when new individuals express interest in joining the organisation. 'Members must guard against infiltration, especially by those who might be joining the party not out of commitment, but with the intention of destabilising it or tarnishing its image,' he warned. As the July congress approaches, it is increasingly clear that the AP is at a crossroads. The tension between tradition and transformation, between seniority and service, is beginning to surface. What transpires in Serowe may not only redefine the party’s leadership structure but could also shape its identity heading into the crucial 2029 General Election.