The ANC’s Western Cape leadership has seen a shake-up, with former ambassador Ebrahim Rasool stepping down as the party’s provincial convener.
The announcement was confirmed by Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula during a briefing on Wednesday following the National Working Committee’s meeting. Mbalula revealed that Rasool’s replacement would be Jerimia Thuynsma – a pastor, activist, and former City of Cape Town councillor from Mitchells Plain.
Rasool’s departure comes less than two weeks after Mbalula announced the reconfiguration of the ANC’s Western Cape provincial task team. While Rasool’s exit raised questions, Mbalula clarified that the former diplomat remains a loyal member of the movement, but his current commitments made it impossible to fulfil the demanding role, as Smile FM reported.
‘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.
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Thuynsma officially accepted the position earlier this week, with Mbalula expressing confidence that the new appointee would bring renewed energy to the province.
‘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 added, describing him as an ‘all-rounder’ with the experience needed to strengthen the party’s foothold in the Western Cape.
‘He’s got accolades, like Alderman, in the council. We believe he’s an activist with energy and commitment — we’re happy with him,’ Mbalula said.
Thuynsma is expected to be sworn in before the end of the week, officially taking the reins as the ANC’s new Western Cape convener.
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Picture: Theo Jeptha / Gallo Images
