The African National Congress (ANC) has announced a leadership change in its Western Cape structures, with Ebrahim Rasool stepping down as the party’s provincial convener.
The news was confirmed by ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula during a briefing following the party’s National Working Committee meeting.
Sparked speculation
Mbalula revealed that Jerimia Thuynsma – a pastor, activist, and former City of Cape Town councillor from Mitchells Plain – will take over the role.
Ebrahim Rasool’s departure comes less than two weeks after Mbalula announced a reconfiguration of the ANC’s Western Cape Provincial Task Team (PTT).
While his exit sparked speculation, Mbalula stressed that Rasool remains a loyal member of the party, but stepped aside due to other professional commitments that made it difficult to meet the demands of the position.
“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.
New Leadership, Renewed Energy
Thuynsma, who officially accepted the appointment earlier this week, brings extensive political and civic experience to the role.
Mbalula expressed confidence that the new convener would inject “energy and commitment” into revitalising the ANC’s presence in the Western Cape – a province long dominated by the Democratic Alliance (DA).
“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 noted.
“He’s an all-rounder with accolades, like Alderman, and we believe he’s an activist with energy and commitment. We’re happy with him.”
Consolidate its structures
Thuynsma’s appointment forms part of the ANC’s broader efforts to consolidate its structures and strengthen its organisational capacity in the province ahead of the 2026 municipal elections.
He is expected to be sworn in before the end of the week, officially assuming his duties as the party’s new Western Cape convener.
Ebrahim Rasool served as the South African ambassador to the United States from 2010 to 2015 and again in 2025, as a member of the National Assembly from 2009 to 2010, and as the 5th premier of the Western Cape from 2004 to 2008.
On 14 March 2025, while serving as ambassador to the US, Rasool was declared persona non grata by Secretary of State Marco Rubio over his criticism of the Donald Trump administration and expelled him from the United States.
