Mokganyetsi to challenge Mathane for the AGN top job

Hendrick Mokganyetsi wants to be the next president of Athletics Gauteng North (AGN).The eagerly awaited elections are set to take place at the Pilditch Stadium in Tshwane on 20 March. Mokganyetsi, who coaches prominent middle-distance runner Milton Kekana is currently a board member - chair of the athletes commission. But insiders say the retired athlete turned coach is ready to challenge incumbent John Mathane for the AGN hot seat.

A source close to the situation said the election nomination list has been handed to the auditors for verification purposes. "Mokganyetsi and other prominent board members are challenging Mathane for the AGN's top position. Contrary to what has been reported in the media, Mathane is not going to run the elections unopposed. Three candidates are vying for the top position. But wait for Tuesday to get the full list of names," the Insider told the Top Runner.

Olympian turned administrator Hendrick Mokganyetsi is believed to have thrown his hat into the ring and will run for AGN President during the upcoming elections. Photo Credit: MWMedia.

The nomination deadline for the AGN elections closed on Friday, with the elections committee to reveal the final list of candidates that are contesting for the 11 positions on the board to the public tomorrow. 209 members are expected to cast their votes to elect a new board in the capital city next month. Mathane has gone public about his presidential ambitions, but Mokganyetsi is playing his cards close to his chest. He said just like any other member he is also waiting for the office to reveal the final nomination list.

"The deadline closed on Friday. Let's wait for those in charge to reveal the list. I have nothing further to say," said Mokganyetsi when he was contacted for comment. Mathane has been vocal about his desire to run for a third term. Although it initially appeared that he may run unopposed it seems he will now face some stern competition from the other board members. The candidates will have a couple of weeks to campaign and discuss their manifestos after the list is made public.

Current AGN President John Mathane says he is not afraid of any challengers. Photo Credit: John Mathane.

Mathane told the Top Runner that everything will be revealed this week and urged everyone to be patient. "Let's be patient, we should know who is vying for which position this week. Once everything has been rubber-stamped we can go into details about the elections. But I want to go on the record and say that I am not scared of being challenged. I am not afraid of anyone. Let the people decide who to vote for once the nomination list becomes public," said Mathane. The Top Runner will be on hand to keep you informed when the big reveal is made this week.