The African National Congress (ANC) in Gauteng will meet at the weekend for a "crucial" extended provincial executive committee (PEC) meeting to develop a programme of action for 2010 following the party's January 8 statement.

Spokesperson Dumisa Ntuli said the lekgotla would be attended by ANC and alliance structures, as well as senior provincial government officials, city managers and mayors.

"Guided by the 2010 January 8th Statement, the PEC Lekgotla will work on a programme of action in assisting local and provincial government in strengthening the capacity of government to provide effective and efficient services to the people," he said in a statement.

The two-day lekgotla, starting Friday, would focus on organisational building and renewal, implementation of the ANC's election manifesto priorities, boosting political management, the 2011 local government elections and the World Cup.

Ntuli confirmed that the province's elective conference would take place in May, but added that a fixed date would depend on the availability of a venue.

The battle for the top spot in the provincial ANC echelons would not be discussed at the lekgotla, he said.

"The issue of leadership is not going to be discussed now," he said.

"The decision was taken when the process for lobbying starts, people must not do it in a way that does not vilify others or use money to woo delegates," he added.

Reports suggest that current chairperson Paul Mashatile will face stiff competition to retain the position from Gauteng Premier and his deputy in the provincial ANC, Nomvula Mokonyane.

Provincial chairs and secretaries represent their province on the national executive committee (NEC).

Mashatile would no longer be in the position to do this should he be toppled in the May election. Mokonyane, however, was elected directly to the NEC in Polokwane.

Gauteng secretary David Makhura and his deputy Mandla Nkomfe reportedly said they would not be available to serve in their current positions.

Education department official Panyaza Lesufi indicated he had accepted a nomination for the post of provincial secretary.

Ntuli said "formal" nominations would open in late March or April.