Ramaphosa urges parties to put communities first after 2026 local election
President Cyril Ramaphosa has urged political parties and newly elected councillors to work together, particularly in municipalities without outright majorities, after the final 2026 local election results were announced in Midrand.
On Sunday evening, President Cyril Ramaphosa spoke to the nation from the IEC's National Results Operations Centre in Midrand, as the final results of the 2026 Local Government Elections were declared. Ramaphosa emphasized the importance of South Africa's democracy, the responsibilities of newly elected councillors, and the need for political parties to collaborate, especially in municipalities where no single party had won a clear majority.
He acknowledged that millions of South Africans, from all walks of life and generations, had exercised their right to vote, reflecting their belief that their voices matter and their votes count. The President reminded that the Constitution establishes South Africa as a multi-party democracy, with universal adult suffrage and regular elections.
Despite ongoing challenges, such as high living costs and unemployment, particularly among young people, Ramaphosa expressed confidence in the nation's resilient democracy. He urged the newly elected councillors to prioritize the needs of their communities, serving with honesty and integrity, and putting residents' interests above personal ambition.
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