North West Premier Job Mogoro to ‘humbly abide’ by ANC suspension

North West Premier Job Mokgoro has no plans on challenging a decision made by the African National Congress (ANC) interim committee in the province to suspend him.

It was widely reported over the weekend that the 72 year-old along with four other members of the ANC in the provincial legislature, Job Dliso, Bitsa Lenkopane, Aaron Motswana and Priscilla Williams have had their memberships in the ANC suspended.

This is after they voted with the opposition on Friday, 29 January 2021, during a sitting in which they were electing a chair of chairs in the legislature.

Mokgoro claimed he had only learnt of his suspension from the media on Saturday, but said he was willing to comply.

“Unfortunately, the suspension I know is through the media no one has spoken to me from IPC,” he told eNCA.

“Let me state categorically I am committed to the values of the ANC and if the leadership take the decision to suspend me, I will humbly abide.”

ANC: Job Mokgoro’s activities ‘will be regulated’

ANC Interim Provincial Committee (IPC) coordinator Hlomane Chauke said while Mokgoro would remain the premier, his activities will be regulated in accordance with the ANC’s mandate. He is also obliged to consult with the Chief Whip and leader of government before making any decisions.

“The work of the government will continue, but it is important that the work will be supervised on certain areas where the party will take certain interest,” Chauke said.

Now Mokgoro and the other four officials will be referred for a disciplinary hearing. According to Chauke, their activities will be as equally regulated.

“They are not in good standing with the party and therefore their activities will be regulated. Their participation will be regulated…we have communicated with them in letters what is expected of them, especially one comrade who will not serve in the legislature…,” he further said.

Mokgoro replaced Supra Mahumapelo as North West Premier in 2018, after he was forced to resign in the wake of protests which were calling for his removal from office. Mahumapelo, who has been fingered in corruption allegations, remains an important figure in the ANC and is currently serving in Parliament.