Fikile Mbalula and the ANC National Executive Committee avoided further political fallout after two candidates they excluded from the electoral process won their wards in Cape Town. The candidates, Sithembiso Mzobe and Zukisani Sophazi, secured victories in Philippi, on the Cape Flats. A court had previously ruled that the ANC leadership had violated its own candidate selection rules. The results highlight internal tensions within the party. The ANC leadership had sidelined the candidates, but they still managed to win their local constituencies. The outcome has raised questions about the party's internal governance. The court's ruling did not prevent the candidates from winning. The ANC has faced criticism over its candidate selection process. The incident adds to ongoing concerns about the party's internal management. The results may influence future party strategies. The ANC remains the dominant political force in the region. The situation underscores the complexity of party politics in South Africa. The outcome could impact the party's future direction. The leadership's actions have drawn scrutiny. The candidates' victories challenge the party's control. The results reflect voter preferences despite internal party conflicts. The ANC continues to navigate internal and external pressures. The situation remains under observation.