Mmusi Maimane’s lifeline is local

Mmusi Maimane, the leader of Build One South Africa (Bosa), is currently facing a critical moment in South African opposition politics. Once a prominent figure, Maimane now wonders if his party can avoid becoming another party that fades into obscurity. With elections approaching on November 4, Bosa plans to contest 24 municipalities across five provinces with 794 candidates. However, Maimane faces a significant challenge in transforming his party into a powerful grassroots movement.

Maimane, a former DA leader and parliamentary leader, possesses the skills needed to campaign and occupy political space. Yet, Bosa has struggled to translate Maimane's personal profile into a strong grassroots movement. There is also a perception that Bosa is a one-man operation. Following the expulsion of the sole Gauteng MPL, Ayanda Allie, Maimane has become the face, voice, and chief campaigner of the party.

The issue for Bosa is not solely Maimane; it is the party's inability to become more than just his name. South Africa has seen this situation before, where charismatic leaders launch parties promising change, but lack the structures and local personalities to sustain them. Bosa needs to move beyond national politics and prove itself locally. Voters want to know what Bosa will do for their specific municipalities, such as fixing refuse collection, fighting corruption, improving roads, and supporting small businesses.

Maimane should consider turning Joburg into a political laboratory, similar to what Herman Mashaba has done with ActionSA. By focusing on the Joburg mayoral contest, Bosa might be able to establish itself as a serious force in a major metropolitan area. If Maimane can successfully turn Bosa into a credible political entity in Joburg or another major city, it could change the national conversation.

However, if Bosa remains primarily "Mmusi Maimane's party," its future remains uncertain. The upcoming local government elections will be a crucial test for Bosa, as they will determine whether Maimane can turn his recognition into political power. South Africa does not need another party with a catchy name and ambitious manifestos; it needs a party that can deliver results and build trust with voters.

Maimane still has time, but he must act quickly to transform Bosa from a political spaza shop into a bustling supermarket, or risk closing down.