Build One South Africa (BOSA) will contest in 24 municipalities across five provinces in the upcoming local government elections [1], [2].
The move represents an attempt to shift the composition of local governance by prioritizing professional expertise over traditional political appointments. BOSA aims to prevent the capture of municipalities by entrenched interests that the party argues hinder service delivery.
During a press briefing in Rosebank, Johannesburg, on Wednesday, BOSA leader Dr. Mmusi Maimane detailed the party's strategy for the polls [2]. He said the party is focusing on a selective approach to ensure high-quality representation in the regions where it competes.
"BOSA is leaving nothing to chance and will, amongst others, select professionals in various communities to represent the party at local government level," Maimane said [1].
The party intends to field candidates in 24 municipalities [1]. These contests will span five provinces [2]. By recruiting professionals, Maimane said the party hopes to establish a standard of governance that resists the influence of political patronage.
This strategy comes as the country prepares for this year's local government elections. The party's focus on professionalization is presented as a safeguard against the systemic failures often associated with local administration.
"We will contest in 24 municipalities across five provinces in this year's local government elections," Maimane said [2].
The Rosebank briefing served as a formal announcement of the party's geographic reach and its intent to challenge established political blocs at the municipal level. The party's leadership said the selection process for candidates will be rigorous to ensure they possess the necessary skills to manage local government functions effectively.
“BOSA will contest in 24 municipalities across five provinces in this year's local government elections.”
BOSA's strategy to field professional candidates in a limited number of municipalities suggests a quality-over-quantity approach to the 2026 elections. By targeting 24 specific areas across five provinces, the party is attempting to create 'proof of concept' hubs of professional governance to challenge the dominance of larger parties and the perceived culture of municipal capture.
