LIVE: MK Party announces its mayoral candidates

The uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party has announced six mayoral candidates for metropolitan municipalities ahead of the 2026 local government elections. MK Secretary-General Sibonelo Nomvalo stated that these candidates will serve as the "face" of the party's campaign. Bongani Baloyi will represent the City of Johannesburg, Thulani Shongwe for Ekurhuleni, Zandile Hlophe-Mkhwanazi for eThekwini, Mapaseka Mothibi for Mangaung, Mzwandile Vaaiboom for Buffalo City, and Mvuleni Mapu for Nelson Mandela Bay.

Nomvalo described the candidate endorsement as an important milestone in the party's electoral preparations and promised voters clear leadership choices. The party has made significant progress in finalizing its People's Mandate, enhancing election operations, managing disputes, and mobilizing volunteers and supporters. The draft 2026 Local Government People's Manifesto is currently under review by national officials, with the Secretary-General's Office consolidating all input.

The party registered over 300,000 new members since June 16, indicating growing support for the organization. They will introduce the Gwaza Election Operations Centre, a cutting-edge facility for real-time election monitoring and coordination during the electoral process. MK Party's head of international relations, Zanele Ntuli, will further strengthen the party's engagement with international partners.

The party welcomed the findings of the Special Investigating Unit regarding expenses at Jacob Zuma's Nkandla homestead and pledged continued support for lawful investigative bodies. The MK Party also launched the "Asibuyele Ebantwini" campaign, urging members to wear green colors and increase presence in communities and on social media.