Mbalula denies ANCYL leadership battle

ANC Youth League (ANCYL) President Fikile Mabula has denied reports that a leadership battle has erupted in the league ahead of its National Congress in April.

He says these are just rumours aimed at undermining the unity and cohesion of the party before its elective conference. Mbalula was speaking after the league's NEC lekgotla held in Vanderbylpark at the weekend.

The youth league will elect its new leadesrship on April 2 in Mangaung in the Free State. Three ANCYL members have been named as possible successors to Mbalula, who has been at the helm for nearly five years.

Among those considered to be front-runners to replace Mbalula is businessman and league national executive committee member, Songezo Mjongile, ANCYL NEC member, Saki Mofokeng, and the league's Limpopo Secretary General, Julius Malema.