Support for ANC in major cities falling ahead of local elections

The African National Congress (ANC) is facing a significant decline in support across South Africa’s major metropolitan areas as the country approaches the upcoming local government elections. Analysts suggest that the party’s inability to address service delivery failures and internal corruption is driving voters toward opposition parties and independent candidates.

The ANC is at a crossroads, and its performance in the upcoming municipal polls will be a critical test of its ability to reform and regain the trust of the electorate in urban centers.

Experts note that the regional dynamics in cities like Johannesburg, Tshwane, and eThekwini are increasingly unfavorable for the ruling party. With the rise of coalition politics following the 2024 national elections, the ANC’s traditional dominance is being challenged by a fragmented political landscape where smaller parties and local movements are gaining traction.