Ramaphosa rejects resignation rumours after ANC election blow

President Cyril Ramaphosa has dismissed rumors suggesting he might resign following the ANC’s disappointing performance in the 2026 local government elections. The president labeled reports about his future as "preposterous," while acknowledging the governing party’s continued decline at the polls. As the election results painted a bleak picture for the ANC, speculation arose that senior leaders might face pressure to step down.

The ANC saw a significant drop in its national vote share, from 45.59% in 2021 to 30.76% in 2026. They secured 3,246 council seats. In response to the reports, Ramaphosa stated, "I don’t know where these rumours come from. I mean, who came up with a rumour like that? It’s preposterous." He acknowledged the ANC's acceptance of the election outcome, saying, "This is their verdict, and we accept it.

We accept it with humility." The Democratic Alliance (DA) came in second with 24.64%, securing 1,695 council seats, followed by the MK party with 9.76% and 785 seats. The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) received 6.22%, translating to 588 seats, and ActionSA obtained 5.67%, yielding 313 seats. Ramaphosa emphasized the democratic process during his address, congratulating South Africans for their participation in the vote.

He described the elections as a reaffirmation of South Africa's constitutional democracy and reminded citizens that political authority ultimately rests with them. "The authority to govern comes from the people. It is not inherited. It is not owned by any political party. It is not the permanent possession of those who hold public office," he stated.

"It is entrusted by the people to those whom they elect, and it must always be exercised in the interests of those who choose them."