Phumulo Masualle is a well-known South African politician whose career has spanned over decades. From his leadership in the Eastern Cape to his position in the National Assembly, Masualle’s journey is both impactful and complex. Here’s a detailed look at 21 key facts you should know about him:
- Early Life and Background
Born on December 12, 1965, in Mount Fletcher in the Eastern Cape, Masualle’s roots trace back to a region historically central to South Africa’s political landscape. He grew up in Mount Frere and Mthatha, where he finished his schooling at St John’s College. - Academic Credentials
Masualle holds diplomas in electrical engineering and economic principles, providing him with a unique technical and economic understanding that would later inform his political career. - Political Awakening in the 1980s
During the anti-apartheid struggle, Masualle was active in student movements and trade unions. His political idol was James Kati, a notable Umkhonto we Sizwe activist, inspiring his deep involvement in politics. - Starting in Public Service
After the end of apartheid, Masualle joined the provincial government of the Eastern Cape, where he would later become a key figure in the ANC and South African Communist Party (SACP). - Entry into Provincial Politics
Masualle was elected to the Eastern Cape Provincial Legislature in 1999, marking the beginning of a long career in provincial politics. He was appointed to the provincial executive as the MEC for Roads and Public Works. - Provincial Leadership and Tensions
As a prominent member of the SACP, Masualle found himself at odds with more moderate factions within the ANC. His left-wing political views created tension within the party, especially during President Thabo Mbeki’s leadership. - SACP National Treasurer
From 2007 to 2012, Masualle served as the SACP’s national treasurer, a significant role within the party, especially as it maintained influence within the Tripartite Alliance. - First National Executive Committee Election
In 2007, Masualle was elected to the ANC’s National Executive Committee (NEC), where he became a key member supporting Jacob Zuma’s political rise. - Eastern Cape ANC Chairmanship
Masualle became the chairperson of the ANC in the Eastern Cape in 2009, a position that further solidified his influence within the province and nationally. - Premier of the Eastern Cape (2014-2019)
In 2014, Masualle succeeded Noxolo Kiviet as the Premier of the Eastern Cape. His tenure focused on rural development, industrialization, and radical socio-economic transformation. - Controversial Public Funds Scandal
During his tenure as Premier, Masualle faced scrutiny over an alleged misuse of public funds related to Nelson Mandela’s funeral, which he later clarified as an administrative error. - The “Festival of Chairs”
At the 2017 ANC provincial elective conference, Masualle’s bid for a third term as ANC provincial chair was overshadowed by a violent brawl, which led to the infamous “Festival of Chairs.” He was ultimately defeated by Oscar Mabuyane. - Resilience Amidst Political Challenges
Despite setbacks, Masualle maintained his position within the ANC’s national leadership and continued to advocate for left-wing politics. He remained influential in Eastern Cape politics and the SACP. - Shift to National Politics
After the 2019 general elections, Masualle transitioned to the National Assembly, marking the end of his provincial leadership. He was appointed as Deputy Minister of Public Enterprises in President Cyril Ramaphosa’s cabinet. - Failed Bid for ANC Secretary-General
In 2022, Masualle campaigned to become ANC Secretary-General, aligning himself with factions critical of Ramaphosa’s leadership. He lost to Fikile Mbalula in a closely contested race. - Cabinet Reshuffle and Dismissal
In 2023, Masualle was removed from his position as Deputy Minister of Public Enterprises by Ramaphosa in a cabinet reshuffle. However, he remained an ordinary Member of Parliament. - A Strong Advocate for Economic Transformation
Throughout his political career, Masualle has been a firm advocate for radical economic transformation, with a focus on job creation, infrastructure development, and industrialization, particularly in his home province. - Family and Personal Life
Masualle married Fuzi Masualle in 1996, and they have children together. Though the couple separated in 2018, he was reported to be in a relationship with a businesswoman from Mount Fletcher in 2019. - Mediating Between Factions
Known for his ability to bridge divides, Masualle’s leadership has been both unifying and divisive, depending on which faction of the ANC he aligned with at any given time. - Contribution to SACP and ANC
His long tenure as a key figure in both the ANC and SACP has earned Masualle a reputation as a strategic thinker and someone deeply entrenched in the ideological struggles within South African politics. - Legacy in Eastern Cape Politics
As a former Premier of the Eastern Cape, Masualle’s influence has left a significant mark on the province’s political and developmental trajectory. His leadership, while sometimes controversial, is remembered for its emphasis on economic and social reforms.