The Democratic Alliance (DA) has secured early leads in Johannesburg, Ekurhuleni, Nelson Mandela Bay, and Cape Town in preliminary results for the 2026 elections. ActionSA, a smaller opposition party, has taken the lead in Tshwane.
Polling data released by the Independent Electoral Commission shows the DA holds a strong position in Johannesburg, with over 40% of the vote in early returns. In Ekurhuleni, the DA also leads with more than 35% of the vote. The party’s focus on economic reform and anti-corruption has resonated with voters in these urban areas.
In Tshwane, ActionSA has gained momentum, securing around 30% of the vote. The party has emphasized local governance and community development, which has appealed to voters in the capital region.
The 2026 elections will be the first since the 2024 national vote, which saw the ruling African National Congress (ANC) retain power despite declining support. The upcoming polls are seen as a critical test for opposition parties seeking to challenge the ANC’s dominance.
The DA’s early lead in major cities suggests a shift in voter sentiment, though final results are still pending. Analysts note that the political landscape remains fluid, with multiple parties vying for influence ahead of the national vote.
