In April 2011, the Sowetan reported that the ANC would not nominate Mdaka for a second term as mayor after the local elections to be held in May that year.
Phaahla's campaign was aligned to ANC President Jacob Zuma but nonetheless failed to oust Mathale.
[10] Phaahla's supporters subsequently alleged that Mathale had won by dint of electoral irregularities at the conference; the Mail & Guardian described Mdaka, in his capacity as Vhembe Regional Chairperson, as the "main complainant".
[11] In May 2012, Mdaka stood for re-election as ANC Regional Chairperson in Vhembe but was defeated by Mutale Mayor Tshitereke Matibe, who received 177 votes against his 143.
[15] In the 2019 general election, Mdaka was re-elected to his legislative seat, ranked 23rd on the ANC's party list;[12] he was succeeded as Chief Whip by Essob Mokgonyana.