ANC's Mashatile Emphasises Focus On Policy Implementation, Eyes Deputy Presidency

Speaking to Bloomberg today, ruling African National Congress's Treasurer General and acting Secretary General Paul Mashatile indicated his focus on "getting the economy right" and implementing pro-growth policies.

• Mashatile is the frontrunner to become ANC's deputy leader at the party conference next month, having secured the endorsements from 1,791 branches. His two closest rivals received just 427 and 397 nominations.
• BusinessLive reported today that minority factions are closing ranks in opposition against Mashatile's bid for deputy leadership and may seek to nominate a joint candidate that could win the heavyweight politician.
• Should Mashatile be elected deputy leader of the ANC next month, he would be expected to take over as South Africa's Deputy President. Incumbent Deputy President Mabuza failed to secure enough nominations to enter the race.