Johannesburg – ANC branches in the Eastern Cape are in the midst of an intense leadership race as the province prepares to hold its elective conference later this month, Dispatch Online reported on Wednesday.

Only the position of provincial chairperson looked likely not to be contested, according to the report.

Two line-ups had emerged with both groups wanting incumbent Phumulo Masualle to retain his position.

However, the position of deputy chairman could be contested by OR Tambo district mayor Dingaan Myolwa and Amathole regional chairperson Sakhumzi Somyo.

The position of provincial secretary was also reportedly hotly contested between African National Congress MPL Michael Peter and incumbent Oscar Mabuyane.

Helen Sauls-August and Ten-Ten Pikinini were likely to contest the position of deputy secretary.

Zukiswa Faku and MECs Pemmy Majodina and Thandiswa Marawu would contest the position of treasurer.

According to Dispatch Online, ANC Youth League Eastern Cape chairperson Ayanda Matiti’s ambition of leading the ANC in the province was dealt a blow at the weekend when the branch in his home town of Mdantsane did not nominate him for the provincial executive committee (PEC).

However, Raymond Mhlaba branch member Thembi Maseti reportedly said Matiti had been nominated.

During a meeting last week it was found that Matiti’s membership in the branch was not in good standing.

This was confirmed by Buffalo City regional secretary Phumlani Mkolo.

– SAPA