South Africa holds local government elections

South Africans are heading to the polls to elect municipal councillors, who will subsequently choose mayors to oversee essential services including water, sanitation, and electricity. The elections serve as a critical test for the African National Congress (ANC), which lost its parliamentary majority in 2024 and has seen a decline in control over several major cities.

In Johannesburg, a major economic hub, political instability has been linked to deteriorating infrastructure and financial mismanagement. The city has seen nine mayors in the last decade under fragile coalitions. Major political players are campaigning heavily, with the Democratic Alliance nominating veteran Helen Zille, while the Economic Freedom Fighters have put forward Dr. Tlaleng Mofokeng.

The South African Local Government Association (SALGA) has called on voters to prioritize integrity and accountability, noting that the quality of elected leaders will directly impact service delivery and the management of local infrastructure.