Qaanitah Hunter | Cii News, Pic: Sapa | October 3, 2012

Pretoria- As the ANC National Executive Committee opened the nomination process, the ANC Youth League has officially nominatedcurrent Peputy President Kgalema Mothlante for the posisition of ANC president come the elective conference in Mangaung in December.

Speaking at a press conference organised by the National Press Club in Pretoria, ANCYL Deputy President Ronald Lamola said they want radical and urgent change.

“Mothlante is a more appealing and energetic leader and he represents the true beliefs of the ANC,” Lamola said.

He further noted that Sports Minister Fikile Mbalula will be their nominee for the position of secretary-general, to replace incumbent Gwede Mantashe.

Other names mentioned that the league holds in esteem are Mathews Phosa, Thandi Modise, Tokyo Sexwale, Paul Mashatile and Thenjiwe Mtitso.

“The leadership perspective is premised from the fact that organisational renewal must go hand in hand with the organisational being infused with fresh thinking, new ideas and innovation from a younger generation of leaders.”

Lamola urged branches to nominate leaders who will be in the best interest of South Africa and not for personal gain.

He urged all branches to respect the outcome of the conference in December, whatever it may be.

Interestingly, the he said that he does not think Mothlante will bring expelled ANCYL president, Julius Malema, back to the party following Mangaung.

He said the league may not always express the sentiments of Malema.

“Our programme of action has nothing to do with Julius Malema,” Lamola said.