OUR CITY NEWS: IFP’s Mlungisi Mabaso claims to know Joburg inside out, but can he fix it?

Mlungisi Mabaso, the IFP's mayoral candidate for Johannesburg, claims to intimately understand the city, but his plans hinge on financial feasibility and scrutiny of migration operations. As a first-time candidate for Johannesburg's mayoral position, Mabaso openly admits his unassuming personality. In Johannesburg, Mabaso leads as a mayoral committee member for human settlements, serves in the IFP Youth Brigade, and balances party responsibilities with his studies. He claims there is no personal life beyond work.

Born in KwaZulu-Natal and residing in Johannesburg for two decades, Mabaso has served on the city council for ten years, including two terms as MMC for human settlements. This experience, he believes, positions him as a more knowledgeable candidate than those less familiar with municipal administration. Mabaso asserts that Johannesburg already possesses resources to recover, lacking only proper management, maintenance, and political commitment.

Mabaso's platform aligns with the IFP's 10-point Johannesburg rescue plan and its 2026 local government manifesto. Key proposals include rebuilding the City's internal maintenance capacity through the hiring and training of local staff to repair infrastructure, launching a Johannesburg Economic Recovery Plan, increasing police presence, and implementing surveillance technology. He also aims to formalize informal settlements, accelerate hostel redevelopment, and expand housing delivery.

Mabaso's stance on undocumented migration and crime is particularly contentious. He attributes illegal activities to migrants but offers no evidence to support his claims. He also participates in operations targeting migrants and businesses, which have faced legal challenges. Despite his seemingly rigorous schedule, Mabaso insists he leads a mundane life, devoid of personal interests outside of politics.