ANC Reveals Shortlist of 42 Mayoral Candidates for Key Metros Ahead of Local Elections

As South Africa prepares for the local government elections on November 4, the African National Congress (ANC) has unveiled a shortlist of 42 potential mayoral candidates for eight metropolitan municipalities. This announcement comes after a series of delays and a shift in the candidate selection process aimed at addressing public concerns about municipal governance.

Originally scheduled to disclose its mayoral candidates on August 22, the ANC instead opted to present a wider pool of candidates, reflecting its engagement with party branches and the public. President Cyril Ramaphosa emphasized the importance of responding to citizens' grievances about local leaders’ inefficacy, stating, "These are realities that we refuse to shy away from." ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula noted that a total of 226 individuals were proposed for consideration from about 50 municipalities across the country.

Despite the party's new approach, many names on the shortlist are affiliated with existing ANC structures, indicating a reliance on familiar faces as the party seeks to regain electoral ground. The ANC has seen a decline in voter support, dropping from 62% in 2011 to 47.5% in 2021, and recent polls suggest it holds only 34% nationally.

In Johannesburg, the incumbent mayor Dada Morero is facing stiff competition, particularly from DA’s Helen Zille and ActionSA’s Herman Mashaba. Loyiso Masuku, Joburg’s deputy mayor, has emerged as a strong candidate following her recent election as ANC Joburg regional chairperson. The race has become contentious, with tensions between Morero and Masuku surfacing over their differing leadership styles.

For the Johannesburg position, Reverend Frank Chikane, a respected ANC veteran, was initially a frontrunner but withdrew due to health concerns, leaving the door open for younger candidates. Aaron Maluleka and Kgoši Maepa are also in the mix, reflecting the party's interest in rejuvenating its leadership.

Moving to Ekurhuleni, the current mayor Nkosindiphile Xhakaza faces challenges from within the party, as political rifts complicate his administration. Jongizizwe Dlabathi, the ANC regional secretary, is one of the candidates vying for the position, highlighting the internal struggles the party faces in this metro.

The eThekwini metro presents a significant challenge for the ANC, as increasing competition from the DA and ActionSA threatens its foothold. Nomusa Dube-Ncube, a prominent figure in the party and former premier, is among the candidates aiming to solidify the ANC’s influence in the region.

As for Nelson Mandela Bay, the current mayor Babalwa Lobishe has faced criticism over service delivery issues. The ANC must navigate a politically charged environment, with candidates like Andile Lungisa and Princess Faku stepping up amid calls for accountability and transparency.

With the ANC's final candidate selections set for September, the party is under pressure to demonstrate a clear commitment to addressing the public's needs and reviving its electoral fortunes in the upcoming local elections.

Source: www.dailymaverick.co.za