Babalo Madikizela, a prominent South African urban planner and politician, has significantly shaped the Eastern Cape’s political landscape. From his tenure as the Eastern Cape MEC for Public Works to his role as a provincial ANC leader, Madikizela’s journey is one of determination and resilience. Here are 15 key facts you should know about him:
1. Early Life in Mbhongweni, Mbizana
Babalo Madikizela was born in the village of Mbhongweni, Mbizana, in the former Transkei. This region is now part of the Eastern Cape, an area with a rich cultural heritage that influenced his path in life.
2. Education Background
He attended St. John’s College for his schooling and graduated with a national diploma in town and regional planning from ML Sultan Technikon, which is now known as the Durban University of Technology.
3. Early Career in Planning
Madikizela’s career in urban planning began with the Municipal Mentoring Programme (MMP). His skills in planning soon led him to a role as a housing manager at Ingquza Hill Local Municipality, where he contributed to the region’s development.
4. Diverse Professional Experience
In addition to his work in municipal planning, Madikizela worked in the fast-food industry and in the construction sector in Mthatha. His varied experiences provided him with a comprehensive view of South Africa’s socio-economic dynamics.
5. Joining the ANC Youth League
Madikizela’s political journey began early when he joined the African National Congress Youth League (ANCYL). He quickly became involved in the youth league’s regional and provincial structures.
6. ANC Regional Leadership
He rose through the ranks of the ANC, serving as an additional member and later as treasurer within the regional structures of the party.
7. Elected ANC Provincial Treasurer
On 1 October 2017, Madikizela was elected provincial treasurer of the African National Congress (ANC) in the Eastern Cape. This role marked a significant step in his political career and influence.
8. Appointment as Member of Provincial Legislature (MPL)
In November 2018, Madikizela was deployed to the Eastern Cape Provincial Legislature, marking the beginning of his formal political career within the provincial government.
9. First MEC Appointment: Human Settlements
On 18 November 2018, Premier Phumulo Masualle appointed Madikizela as the MEC for Human Settlements. This appointment was part of his increasing role in shaping the province’s political and developmental policies.
10. MEC for Public Works (2019-2022)
Following the May 2019 provincial election, Premier Oscar Mabuyane appointed Madikizela as the MEC for Public Works. His leadership in this role focused on public infrastructure development in the Eastern Cape.
11. Accusations and Lifestyle Audit
In 2019, Madikizela was accused of fraud and corruption by businessman Lonwabo Bam. Madikizela denied the allegations and voluntarily submitted to a lifestyle audit to address the claims against him.
12. Political Contest with Oscar Mabuyane
In May 2022, Madikizela contested the position of provincial chairperson of the ANC against Oscar Mabuyane. Despite his efforts, Madikizela lost, receiving 662 votes to Mabuyane’s 812.
13. Resignation from MEC Role
After his defeat in the ANC leadership contest, Madikizela announced his resignation from the provincial government. He vacated his office as MEC for Public Works on 29 July 2022, signaling the end of his executive role.
14. Continued Role as MPL
Despite stepping down as MEC, Madikizela remained a Member of the Provincial Legislature. His commitment to serving the people of Eastern Cape continued, even outside of the executive branch.
15. Final Resignation and Departure
On 2 August 2022, Madikizela formally resigned from the Provincial Legislature, marking the conclusion of his political career in the Eastern Cape government. His resignation paved the way for Ntombovuyo Nkopane to take over as MEC for Public Works.
