Five Tshwane polls give DA an edge in coalition negotiations

The Democratic Alliance (DA) has emerged as the leading party in the City of Tshwane as vote counting nears completion, positioning the party to play a central role in the inevitable coalition negotiations. With approximately 77% of the votes counted, the DA holds 31.28% of the support, followed by ActionSA at 23.43% and the African National Congress (ANC) at 22.15%.

The DA has maintained that its performance places it on course to become the largest party in the city for the first time since the 2016 local government elections.

As the prospect of a hung council becomes a reality, political parties are already outlining their conditions for potential partnerships. DA mayoral candidate Cilliers Brink has emphasized that the party will judge potential partners based on their commitment to fixing water and electricity infrastructure and restoring the rule of law. Meanwhile, ActionSA has signaled its intent to negotiate for the retention of current Mayor Dr. Nasiphi Moya, with national chairperson Michael Beaumont stating the party is prepared to negotiate with any group that shares their priorities.

What I can say, and I’m happy to say this without any fear or contradiction, is that we’ll be negotiating to ensure that Dr Nasiphi Moya gets five more years.

Political analysts note that the fragmentation of the vote has made coalition governments more likely than ever before, with smaller parties and independent candidates potentially holding the balance of power. While the ANC has dismissed claims of backroom deals regarding the exchange of metro control, the focus remains on whether the next administration can break the cycle of political instability that has seen four mayors take office in Tshwane between 2021 and 2024.