- ANC National Chairperson Gwede Mantashe was filmed engaging a female supporter during a campaign rally ahead of the 4 November 2026 Local Government Elections
- Mantashe told the woman he had campaigned for her and that she had never paid him back, prompting her to ask what he expected in return
- The exchange went viral on X, drawing a wave of reactions from South Africans who were divided on whether the moment was flirtatious or simply a joke
Source: Getty Images
SOUTH AFRICA — A short video of African National Congress National Chairperson Gwede Mantashe interacting with a female supporter during a campaign event has gone viral on X, drawing widespread commentary from South Africans.
The clip, shared on X by @SebolaoBaba ahead of the Local Government Elections scheduled for 4 November 2026, was filmed at an outdoor rally in what appears to be a dusty open area with buildings visible in the background.
What did Mantashe say?
In the exchange, Mantashe told the woman directly that he had campaigned for her and she had won, but that she had never returned the favour. When she asked what exactly she owed him, Mantashe replied:
"A person pays with whatever she/he has."
The remark, delivered in a casual, seemingly lighthearted tone, quickly caught the attention of social media users who debated its meaning.
View the clip on X here:
South Africans react online
The clip drew divided responses, with some users reading humour into the moment and others seeing something more pointed in Mantashe's words.
@ReginaldMkhats1 wrote:
"Gwede wants his payback.... by any means necessary."
@mterana_1 said:
"The tiger in him has been unleashed 😂😂😂"
@Siphomorris6 remarked:
"Remember this man 👨 is a 🐅 tiger."
@BhutGoat offered a more measured read:
"It's a joke, bandla 😂"
Mantashe, a senior ANC figure who has served in various Cabinet positions, is currently on the campaign trail as the party works to shore up support before voters head to the polls on 4 November 2026.
Gwede Mantashe slammed over journalist remarks
In a related article, Briefly News reported on the ANC Women’s League’s call for Mantashe to apologise to a journalist and face organisational disciplinary action over his remarks.
The League said Mantashe’s age and seniority did not excuse his conduct, and urged ANC leaders to hold him accountable. At the time its statement was issued, Mantashe had not responded to the demands.
Source: Briefly News
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