R2.7m for portraits of ANC’s new top 6

Big bucks flowed at new treasurer-general Zweli Mkhize’s first fundraiser.

The most prized item at the auction last night was a painting of Nelson Mandela by artist Sifiso Ngcobo, which fetched R3.7 million. The painting shows the face of the revered struggle icon, with rondavels and an aloe in the background.

Bidding started at R400 000, and the winning bid came from a table bought by some traditional leaders. It was not immediately clear who they were.

Two portraits of the current ANC top six leaders fetched R1.4 million and R1.3 million respectively from the businesses who had bought tables at the gala dinner.

Before that a set of three portraits of Mandela, Oliver Tambo and President Jacob Zuma was sold for R750 000. It was to be autographed by Zuma and the families of the two struggle icons.

Among those who attended the event were businessman Patrice Motsepe, Sasol executive Maurice Radebe, cabinet ministers and members of the party’s national executive committee.

Before the fundraising started, Zuma implored businesspeople to go beyond supporting the ANC.

“Support is fine, we love it. But if you just go beyond that and become a member you’ll realise everything of yours will go very well. If you are a businessman business will thrive. Everything you touch will multiply,” Zuma said.

Musicians Swazi Dlamini and Jonas Gwangwa entertained the guests.