2026 local government elections: Who is running for mayor in Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban and other metros?

The 2026 local government elections in South Africa are set to be a pivotal moment for the country’s major metropolitan areas. As political parties and independent candidates prepare for the polls, the race for mayoral positions in cities like Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Durban is heating up.

In Johannesburg, the political landscape remains highly contested, with various coalitions vying for control of the city’s council. Analysts suggest that the outcome will depend heavily on the ability of parties to form stable alliances.

Cape Town, traditionally a stronghold for the Democratic Alliance, is expected to see a robust challenge from opposition parties looking to make inroads into the city’s governance. Meanwhile, in Durban (eThekwini), the focus is on addressing service delivery challenges and infrastructure development, which are central themes for all mayoral hopefuls.

The upcoming elections represent a critical juncture for South Africa’s metros, as voters look for leadership that can effectively tackle unemployment, energy shortages, and municipal service failures.

As the election date approaches, the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) is finalizing preparations to ensure a free and fair process. Voters are encouraged to check their registration status and prepare to participate in shaping the future of their local governments.