DECISIVE ACTION: ANC loses control of Makana for first time in municipality’s history

A community-led civic movement has made history by securing four council seats in Makana, the first time the ANC has lost control of the municipality. The ANC's grip on Makana has finally ended, and now coalition negotiations are underway to determine who will govern the struggling area.

The Makana United Civic Movement (MUCM), a brand-new political organization, emerged victorious with four seats and 19.51% of the vote. The Democratic Alliance (DA) and the African National Congress (ANC) came in second and third place with 27.24% and 31.27% of the vote, respectively. The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), South African Communist Party (SACP), PA, Makana Citizens Front, and ActionSA each secured one seat.

The MUCM's success, however, has sparked questions about the future of Makana's governance. Officials are debating whether the parties can cooperate effectively enough to address the municipality's dire needs, such as failing basic services, poor road conditions, and the general decline in quality of life.

MUCM chairperson Andile Peter said his group's victory is a clear message from voters that the ANC has failed them for too long. He emphasized that the MUCM would not compromise on crucial issues like financial management, accountability, and service delivery, but would negotiate with any party that shares their values.

ANC regional chair Mabhuti Matyumza, however, maintains that the ANC still holds the trust of Makana's voters. He attributed the drop in ANC votes to low voter turnout rather than any decline in public confidence. Matyumza called on black voters to participate more actively in future elections to prevent future power struggles.