THE top Gauteng ANC leadership has threatened to expel members breaking the rules, as lobbying for the provincial leadership gets ugly, provincial secretary David Makhura warned yesterday.

THE top Gauteng ANC leadership has threatened to expel members breaking the rules, as lobbying for the provincial leadership gets ugly, provincial secretary David Makhura warned yesterday.

The threat came amid intense campaigning and lobbying by members in opposing camps supporting incumbent, Paul Mashatile, Deputy Minister of Art and Culture, against Gauteng Premier Nomvula Mokonyane.

So serious are the threats that last week, Thapelo Ranto, a chief campaigner for Mokonyane's bid, was suspended.

Ranto, a member of the Greater Montana branch in Tshwane was suspended allegedly for sending out an SMS inviting his comrades to a meeting to discuss leadership ahead of the provincial elective conference on May 6-8 at Tshwane's Events Centre.

Regional spokesperson, Burton Joseph confirmed the suspension but refused to elaborate. Makhura said the PEC had received reports of lobbying groups holding illegal meetings, but whistleblowers were "reluctant" to testify before a DC.

"Those involved in these actions will be suspended with immediate effect," Makhura said.

At least 243 of the 375 branches have submitted nominations for the new leadership to be elected.

Mokonyane's supporters allegedly disrupted a meeting in Randfontein while Mashatile's are accused of intimidating and purging ANC leaders in Alexandra Township.