LOCAL ELECTIONS 2026: Smaller parties in eThekwini set their sights on holding the balance of power

In South Africa's province of KwaZulu-Natal, local elections are taking place on Wednesday, which could significantly alter the political landscape. Jacob Zuma's uMkhonto Wesizwe (MK) party is expected to perform well in eThekwini, a city in the province, and could potentially secure control of the local government. This could lead to power shifts and influence the outcome of the City's budget, which is valued at R75-billion.

Currently, the African National Congress (ANC) dominates the City of eThekwini, controlling 95 out of the 224 seats. If MK does well in the elections, smaller parties will play a crucial role in determining the balance of power. The Inkatha Freedom Party, ANC, and Democratic Alliance currently govern the provincial legislature in a coalition, with MK just a whisker away from obtaining control.

Water is a major concern for voters in eThekwini, with many citizens facing a severe water crisis. The City's biggest revenue generator is water resale, which has not been sufficient to address the city's water needs. The eThekwini Ratepayers' Protest Movement (ERPM), led by Asad Gaffar, is advocating for water to be declared a crisis and for the City to ringfence water revenue for infrastructure improvements.

Political analyst Xolani Dube has highlighted the potential for smaller parties to act as disruptors and kingmakers in eThekwini. These parties could determine the outcome of the elections, with the magic number being 113 seats, which would give a party control of the City's budget. Smaller parties are being wooed by larger parties, but some, like the Active Citizens Coalition led by Imtiaz Syed, are holding out for better conditions and accountability.