Outgoing Tshwane Mayor Kgosientso Ramokgopa is keeping his cards close to his chest regarding his next move, after the African National Congress (ANC) nominated former cabinet minister Thoko Didiza to take over the reins of South Africa’s capital city.

On Wednesday, Ramokgopa led Didiza and numerous ANC regional leaders on a door-to-door campaign in Hammanskraal, north of Pretoria.

"I’m the chairperson of the African National Congress in the region," said Ramokgopa when asked by reporters about his future plans.

Asked about a rumoured cabinet appointment, Ramokgopa responded: "No. I serve the African National Congress. I will continue to be the chairperson of the ANC and from outside, we will continue to support comrade Thoko."

He said Didiza had an impeccable record and would be given "space" to lead the people of Tshwane.

"I think it is important that we give her the support. It is also important that we give her the space to assert her vision within the parameters of what the ANC represents. From us, she is assured of support and space," said Ramokgopa.

"We are more than confident that with her impeccable credentials and track record, serving ordinary people, indeed she is going to ensure that we take Tshwane to a different level."

A high-level ANC regional delegation, led by Ramokgopa and Didiza, visited the home of Simon Modihe, the ANC member who was fatally shot two weeks ago when violence broke out in Pretoria after news filtered through that Didiza would be nominated as mayoral candidate.

Ramokgopa said Modihe did not die in vain. "We went there to pledge our solidarity to the family. We went there to say Simon’s death has not been in vain. We recommitted to the agenda to improve the quality of life for our people, to restore their dignity and to continue having a solid relationship with the Modihe family," said Ramokgopa.

"We also conveyed the message that, indeed, a suspect has been arrested and we’re looking to the law enforcement agencies to continue with their task. Perpetrators responsible for this despicable act must be brought to book and serve their time."

Gauteng police on Tuesday said they had arrested a 36-year-old suspect in connection with Modihe’s death. The ANC supporter was gunned down outside an ANC branch executive committee meeting at the Tshwane Events Centre, west of Pretoria.

Modihe was killed a day before Didiza was officially announced as Tshwane mayoral candidate for the ANC for the August 3 local government elections.