The African National Congress (ANC) is facing significant backlash as South Africa prepares for its first local government elections since forming the Government of National Unity [1].

These elections serve as a critical test for the ANC's ability to maintain power at the municipal level while managing a complex coalition government. Failure to stabilize local governance could erode the party's legitimacy and influence in the broader national landscape.

Political experts said that fragmented opposition politics and worsening municipal governance will define these elections, and the outlook is not favorable for the ANC [1]. The party is struggling to address deteriorating services and administrative failures in various municipalities, which analysts suggest is fueling voter dissatisfaction [1].

Internal friction is further complicating the party's preparations. The ANC recently gave members who hold dual membership with the South African Communist Party (SACP) a 10-day ultimatum to declare their campaign allegiance [2]. This move has sparked an internal crisis over loyalty, and party discipline as the local polls approach.

Fikile Mbalula said there is no intention to hound SACP members out of the ANC and that their alliance remains intact [3]. Despite these assurances, the demand for explicit allegiance highlights the tension between the ANC and its long-term allies.

To counter these challenges, the ANC has sought to recruit talented city mayors from both inside and outside the party [4]. This effort to professionalize municipal leadership comes as the party prepares to formally launch its campaign in July 2026 [4].

The local elections are scheduled for July 2026 [1, 4]. This will be the first time voters cast ballots for municipal leadership under the current Government of National Unity framework.

“Fragmented opposition politics and worsening municipal governance will define South Africa's first post‑GNU local elections”

The ANC is attempting to navigate a transition from a dominant party to a partner in a coalition. The friction with the SACP and the focus on recruiting outside talent for mayoral seats suggest the party recognizes that its traditional grassroots machinery may no longer be sufficient to secure municipal victories in a more fragmented political environment.