Private security and Mangaung's security officials are conducting a stop-and-go at the Metro's premises. Traffic officials from the Department of Police, Roads, and Transport are conducting similar precautions. The heavy security at the Metro's premises comes after two of Mangaung's pressure groups vowed to protest at the Bloemfontein City Hall where the inauguration/election of the mayor and speaker is set to take place on Monday. Meanwhile, ANC heavyweights such as David Mahlobo are also present at the venue. It's understood that he, among other ANC members, are holding an internal ANC caucus ahead of the proceedings.

Meanwhile, a battle between two opposing factions aligned to ANC president Cyril Ramaphosa and suspended ANC Secretary-General Ace Magashule continues to play itself out at the troubled Bloemfontein-based Mangaung Metro. A show-down is expected today at the first council sitting, during which the election of the mayor and speaker is expected to be conducted through secret ballot. It's understood that the Magasgule faction, which is aligned to the Radical Economic Transformation, is pushing for a female mayor and have their eyes on Mapaseka Mothibi-Nkoane. However, the Ramaphosa faction has opted for continuity and stability and decided to back Mxolisi Siyonzana, currently at the helm.

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