LOCAL ELECTIONS 2026: On paper vs reality — could the DA and the ANC work together in Joburg?

In Johannesburg's upcoming local elections, the ANC and DA are the two largest parties, making a potential coalition between them a strong possibility. However, there are numerous factors that could either facilitate or hinder such a partnership. One clear advantage of a DA-ANC coalition is the stability it would bring to the municipal government, as it would replicate the successful national coalition that currently governs South Africa.

Additionally, both parties tend to appeal to the middle ground of the political spectrum, representing the interests of core voters in the formal economy. This shared appeal could foster a more legitimate government that better serves its constituents.

A key aspect of the political dynamics in the post-election period is the potential for the DA to claim that it will cooperate with the ANC, thus appealing to their supporters' desire for corruption reduction. This approach could be seen as a way for the DA to distance itself from criticism, and it may provide a semblance of legitimacy for the ANC in the eyes of their supporters.

However, this hypothetical scenario presents significant challenges for the DA, such as sharing power with the ANC, which could mean appointing ANC members to key positions. This allocation of power could lead to dissatisfaction among DA voters, who might hold the mayor responsible for any shortcomings in service delivery.

The personalities involved in this potential coalition also play a crucial role, as trust is a necessary ingredient for a successful partnership. While the DA has a history of working with President Cyril Ramaphosa in national government, the Joburg ANC region lacks a figure like Ramaphosa to inspire confidence in their leadership. Furthermore, the ANC's internal divisions make it difficult to gauge the party's commitment to a coalition with the DA, potentially raising concerns about betrayal and corruption.

For the ANC, working with the DA could be a strategic move to retain some level of power and avoid alienating voters who prefer the DA's leadership. However, this alliance comes with its own set of risks, including the potential for betrayal from ANC members and the possibility of dealing with volatile coalition partners like the MK and EFF.

Both parties would need to navigate these challenges carefully to ensure the coalition's success in improving service delivery and maintaining stability in Johannesburg's municipal government.