ANC under pressure to reverse South Africa decline

South African voters are heading to the polls in crucial local elections that could see a significant drop in support for the ruling African National Congress (ANC). With 300 municipalities up for grabs, the incumbents are looking to prove they can still govern effectively. However, the party has struggled in recent years, losing its parliamentary majority for the first time since 1994 and experiencing a sharp decline in voter support.

President Cyril Ramaphosa remains optimistic, claiming the ANC's popularity is on the rise and expecting a decisive victory on November 4th. Yet, residents in poor neighborhoods like Alexandra, north of Johannesburg, are growing increasingly frustrated with the ANC's handling of basic services like water, electricity, and waste collection.

Some residents, like 18-year-old Sanele Ntombela, are excited to cast their first vote, believing it could bring about change. Others, such as 33-year-old Zandile Mncube, are disillusioned with the lack of improvement and have decided against voting. The stark contrast between the affluent Sandton area and impoverished Alexandra highlights the deep divide in service delivery and living conditions across South Africa.