WATCH: ANC denies Chikane withdrew from Joburg mayoral race as party announces candidates

The African National Congress (ANC) has firmly denied claims that veteran leader Frank Chikane has dropped out of the race to become the party's mayoral candidate for Johannesburg. This assertion was made by ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula during a press conference at Sandton International Convention Centre on Saturday. Mbalula emphasized that Chikane remains among the candidates under consideration for the Johannesburg mayoral position.

Mbalula reiterated the party's confidence in its selection process for mayoral candidates, stating that they have raised the bar for these candidates. He noted that the ANC is particularly focused on ensuring that mayoral candidates possess certain qualities and possess a certain level of education. This marks a shift from the previous practice where an individual, regardless of their qualifications, would often become the mayor following an election.

The ANC, grappling with criticism over poor governance and administration, is under pressure to enhance its performance in the upcoming local government elections. Johannesburg is expected to be the most closely watched contest within the party, with Chikane being a potential frontrunner. The incumbent mayor of Johannesburg is ANC councillor Dada Morero.

If Chikane were to secure the position, he would face a competitive field comprising candidates from various political parties, including Helen Zille from the Democratic Alliance, Herman Mashaba of ActionSA, Tlaleng Mofokeng from the Economic Freedom Fighters, Kenny Kunene from the Patriotic Alliance, Mlungisi Mabaso from the Inkatha Freedom Party, Lukhona Mnguni from Rise Mzansi, Nobuntu Hlazo-Webster from Build One South Africa, and others.