The North West premier is back at the helm after sick leave earlier this year.

Rumours spread about his imminent departure from his office after ANC Chairperson Nono Maloyi occupied the seat in an acting capacity.

Rumours of Maape losing his post to Maloyi were more intense days after he failed to win the ANC chairperson position, which he contested against Maloyi in August 2022. His spokesperson, Sello Tatai, said in June North West Premier Kaobitsa Bushy Maape fell ill following minor orthopaedic surgery.

He said the former Robben Island prisoner was subsequently advised by his medical team to take a rest while receiving medical attention. “Premier Maape has since been medically advised that he has sufficiently recovered to resume his duties as premier with effect from 13 November 2023. 

“His programme and engagement with stakeholders will be communicated in due course,” Tatai said.

Maloyi has since thanked colleagues in the North West Executive Council and all stakeholders for their support and well wishes during Maape's recovery.

OFM News previously reported North West University political analyst André Duvenhage said following the election of Maloyi as ANC chairperson in 2022, it was inevitable that he would become the premier. Duvenhage said he expected the North West government to get rid of the legacy of the former premier Supra Mahumapelo.

During its nineth provincial conference, ANC members elected 30 PEC members and Maape, and former IPC convener, Hlomane Chauke, failed to make it onto the list.

OFM News/Lucky Nkuyane Corné/Daphné/Morné