eThekwini Municipality mayoral candidates: MK Party, EFF, DA, ActionSA, IFP

As the 2026 local government elections approach, political parties are finalizing their mayoral candidates for the eThekwini Municipality, a key battleground in KwaZulu-Natal.

The Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) has officially unveiled Mkhuleko Hlengwa as its mayoral candidate for eThekwini. During a media briefing, IFP president Velenkosini Hlabisa announced a “two-horns” strategy, pairing Hlengwa with Sizwe Skhakhane, who has been named the party’s deputy mayoral candidate for the metro.

ActionSA has named its KwaZulu-Natal leader, Zwakele Mncwango, as its mayoral candidate for the municipality. Accepting the nomination, Mncwango stated that his priorities would include tackling hijacked buildings and establishing a dedicated unit to address the issue of undocumented immigrants.

The Democratic Alliance (DA) has nominated Haniff Hoosen as its mayoral candidate. DA leader John Steenhuisen has expressed confidence in Hoosen’s leadership, citing his experience in council and Parliament as essential for rebuilding the municipality.

The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) have deployed former deputy secretary-general Hlengiwe Mkhaliphi as their candidate for eThekwini, as part of a broader strategy to contest major metros across the country.

Meanwhile, the uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP) has faced ongoing speculation regarding its candidate. While there has been significant discussion about the potential nomination of former eThekwini mayor Zandile Gumede, the party has indicated it is awaiting final guidance from party leader Jacob Zuma and Secretary-General Sibonelo Nomvalo on the selection process.