ANC Accelerates Candidate Selection Ahead of Upcoming Local Elections

The African National Congress (ANC) is preparing to finalize a roster of more than 10,000 candidates for the upcoming local elections, with over 5,000 applications received for metropolitan mayoral positions. Secretary‑General Fikile Mbalula said the party will announce the final lists within weeks, emphasizing a centralized yet merit‑based process aimed at addressing past governance criticisms.

President Cyril Ramaphosa, addressing frustrated voters, urged South Africans to assess the ANC’s recent progress in infrastructure, water and electricity projects ahead of the November 4 local government elections. He highlighted the government's R1 trillion infrastructure investment, new water delivery initiatives, steps to resolve power shortages, a crackdown on illegal mining and corruption, and signs of economic recovery. Ramaphosa called for voter participation and welcomed the growing number of parties contesting the elections, saying it would strengthen democracy.