All indications are that Deputy President David "DD" Mabuza will remain the country's number two, despite numerous rumours that he is expected to take up a full-time position at the African National Congress's (ANC's)  headquarters, Luthuli House.

When Mabuza spoke to News24 outside of the ANC's special national executive committee (NEC) meeting on Monday, he said: "I am still standing."

He added that he didn't understand where the rumours came from and told journalists that speculation about him was wrong. On Tuesday, he registered to be a member of Parliament.

Speculation has been rife about Mabuza's future, with many debating possible candidates to replace him as deputy president.

Calls for change have included a push for a female deputy president. Names being bandied about are Dr Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, Lindiwe Sisulu and Naledi Pandor.

In addition, when asked about the deputy president post and Mabuza's future, ANC secretary general Ace Magashule said: "No positions are guaranteed in the ANC."

According to some in the party, Mabuza expressed a wish to step down and be based at Luthuli House full time.

Others claimed this plan changed following intense discussions and lobbying with President Cyril Ramaphosa on Sunday evening.