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paul mashatile

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Deputy President Paul Mashatile remains at the center of South Africa’s political developments, both internationally and domestically. In July 2025, Mashatile was on an official working visit to China from July 14–18, where he met with Chinese Vice President Han Zheng to strengthen bilateral relations and participate in the China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE). This visit aimed to advance economic and trade cooperation, reinforce South Africa’s strategic partnership with China, and position the country as a trade gateway to Sub-Saharan Africa[5][3].

On the domestic front, Mashatile has been proactive in policy and party matters. He recently unveiled a strategic plan to address municipal water debt, focusing on fund reallocations and stricter accountability. Additionally, as political tensions intensify between the African National Congress (ANC) and the Democratic Alliance (DA) regarding the national budget and corruption allegations, Mashatile has publicly vowed to defeat any motions of no-confidence against President Cyril Ramaphosa. He asserted that the ANC would support all Parliament budgets and counter efforts by the DA to unseat Ramaphosa[4].

Mashatile remains a key figure in the ANC’s leadership dynamics. He delivered a heartfelt tribute to former deputy president David Mabuza, underscoring the latter’s humility and loyalty. Amidst questions about accountability, Mashatile has been vocal about the need for fairness in holding ministers from all parties accountable, rejecting claims that the ANC shields its own members more than those from opposition parties[2].

Despite his high profile, controversy continues to shadow Mashatile. He refuted allegations of impropriety linked to Sizekhaya Holdings and the recent national lottery licence award, with the company denying any political interference. There have also been calls for investigations, reflecting ongoing scrutiny of Mashatile’s conduct[4]. In a wide-ranging video interview, Mashatile addressed topics from growing public scrutiny and alleged ethical violations to his views on coalition governance, his role in Gauteng’s development, and recent assassination attempt rumors[2].

On the international sanctions front, there is mounting pressure on senior ANC figures, including, by implication, Mashatile, as the US House Foreign Affairs Committee advances legislation targeting ANC leaders due to strained relations with Washington[6]. However, there is no official confirmation of direct sanctions against Mashatile as of the latest reports.

Looking forward, Mashatile is seen as a top contender for ANC president at the party’s 2027 elective conference, although he faces both internal and external challenges—ranging from persistent corruption allegations to the need to balance party unity with government accountability[8].

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