Don't bet on the deputy: iLIVE
Kgalema Motlanthe is expected to stand against Jacob Zuma for the ruling party's top position, but he is yet to declare his candidacy. He doesn't have the luxury of time - we are only a month-and-a-half away from the elective conference.
Does Motlanthe expect to beat Zuma in Mangaung without campaigning and lobbying? Can he depend solely on the branches for his election to the top post? Is that realistic, given the ANC's prevailing politics?
The recent launch of the ANC deputy president's biography is intended to sell him to the ANC members who will be voting in Mangaung. But time is running out.
It's interesting to note that Zuma's popularity has plummeted: the nation is unhappy with his leadership, or lack thereof. The recent media revelation of plans to spend excessively on Nkandla have made things worse.
However, Zuma remains popular within the party's structures and is most likely to be re-elected at Mangaung.
It appears Motlanthe is still weighing his options. I have a hunch he's not going to stand against Msholozi - given the support JZ enjoys. This will leave his supporters with egg on their faces.
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