ANC’s plan of multiple mayoral candidates shows divisions: Analyst
In Matjhabeng, seven names have been put forward, including current mayor Thanduxolo Khalipha.
Political analyst Professor Sethulego Matebesi has commented on the African National Congress (ANC)’s decision to announce multiple mayoral candidates for each municipality in South Africa. He believes that this strategy reflects the internal divisions within the party, especially as other political parties are fielding a single candidate per municipality.
In the Free State province, eight names have been suggested for Mangaung, including former Executive Mayor Thabo Manyoni, current Mayor Gregory Nthatisi, and his Deputy, Lulama Titi-Odili. Matjhabeng has seven names, including the incumbent mayor Thanduxolo Khalipha. The party has also put forward five possible candidates in the troubled Maluti-A-Phofung, including incumbent Tumelo Thebe, in preparation for the November local government elections.
Matebesi notes that this move has drawn some attention, but he believes it is an effort to manage the internal disputes within the ANC. He acknowledges that the success of this strategy remains to be seen, as the party must eventually announce their final candidates. The ANC released its 2026 local government election manifesto on Sunday.
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