Thokozile Mnguni
Controversial former African National Congress (ANC) MP Boy Mamabolo has launched his own political movement, Born To Win, saying the party aims to become a voice for marginalised communities and focus on the needs of the poor.
The Limpopo-born politician told The News Desk that despite criticism and ridicule following the announcement of the new party, he remained confident that the movement would grow significantly over time.
Mamabolo compared the party’s early stages to a “spaza shop” that he believes will eventually become a “shopping mall”.
He said the process of registering the political party was not straightforward, claiming that the Independent Electoral Commission rejected the first name he had proposed due to the influence of the ANC.
Mamabolo also expressed confidence that Born To Win would weaken support for his former party, particularly in Limpopo.
“I am that kind of person who, when I fight, I don’t lose, and that is why we will be calling ourselves winners in this movement. I have a very strong character, and nothing will stop me from achieving what I want to achieve,” he said.
According to Mamabolo, the party plans to tackle issues including unemployment, poverty and inequality. He said Born To Win also intends to create opportunities for young people and older citizens, particularly those over the age of 40, by giving them opportunities to serve as councillors and mayors.
He argued that empowering communities through local government leadership would help accelerate service delivery and contribute to job creation.
Mamabolo confirmed that Born To Win will contest the upcoming local government elections. However, he said decisions on which municipalities the party would target would only be finalised after the official launch of the party and its manifesto.
“I believe I have support, and I will win the hearts of the voters. I’ve always been and still am amongst voters on a daily basis, unlike other leaders who act as celebrities to their own people,” he said.
Mamabolo recently appeared on the Just Talk With DJ Cappuccino podcast, where he apologised to South Africans for previously encouraging them to vote for the ANC.
During the interview, he accused long-serving ANC leaders of prioritising luxury lifestyles over the needs of ordinary citizens.
Mamabolo said Born To Win would focus on growing township economies and encouraging broader community participation.
The party’s official launch is scheduled to take place on 18 July at the Ngoako Ramatlhodi Sport Complex.
He said he deliberately chose the birth date of former President Nelson Mandela because he believes Mandela represents the values he wants the movement to embody.