Mandla Msibi’s Service Delivery Party (SDP) has overtaken the ruling African National Congress (ANC) in Victor Khanye Local Municipality, according to provisional election results. The SDP secured 38.82% of the vote, compared to the ANC’s 29.08%. The results, released by the Electoral Commission of South Africa, reflect a shift in voter support in the area.
In Gauteng province, early results indicate a significant drop in ANC votes, with the Democratic Alliance (DA) leading. The ANC’s share of the vote has decreased, marking a potential decline in its dominance. Meanwhile, in other regions, the ANC narrowly leads the DA in early results, though the gap remains small.
The 2026 local government elections are seen as a critical test for the ANC, which has faced increasing public dissatisfaction over service delivery and corruption. Analysts suggest that the elections could further erode the party’s influence, particularly in urban areas where opposition parties are gaining traction. The outcome will have implications for the ANC’s ability to maintain power at the local level.
The ANC has long been the dominant political force in South Africa, but recent years have seen growing challenges from opposition parties. The elections are part of a broader trend of declining support for the ANC, driven by public frustration and internal party issues. The results will be closely watched as an indicator of the party’s future prospects in national politics.
