Mbalula: ANC to announce mayoral candidates after election results as coalition talks remain on hold
The ANC is yet to officially announce its mayoral candidates across the country's municipalities, despite having already completed its selection process.
ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula announced that the party will reveal its final mayoral candidates after the 2026 local government elections results have been declared and analyzed. Any potential coalition negotiations will be handled by the ANC's national leadership, known as the top seven, and regional structures will not participate in these discussions.
Mbalula made these remarks on November 4, 2026, after voting in Johannesburg. The ANC has already shortlisted 42 individuals for mayoral positions across various municipalities, with three candidates named for Johannesburg: incumbent mayor Dada Morero, deputy mayor Loyiso Masuku, and party stalwart Frank Chikane. Tshwane's shortlist includes Aaron Maluleka, Kgoši Maepa, Chana Pilane-Majake, and Tlangi Mogale, while Ekurhuleni has four contenders: Jongizizwe Dlabathi and Nkosindiphile Xhakaza.
Mbalula stated that the party's campaign had focused on its performance and the challenges faced by communities rather than individual mayoral candidates. Once the election results are available, the ANC will announce its final mayoral candidates within the next two weeks.
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