2026 LGE results make coalition governments the new normal
2026 LGE results delivered 139 hung councils out of the available 257 municipalities across SA.
The 2026 Local Government Elections (LGE) in South Africa have resulted in 139 hung councils out of the 257 municipalities. No single political party has managed to secure an outright majority of 50 plus one seats, requiring parties to negotiate governance conditions and principles. Terry Tselane, Chairperson of the Institute of Election Management Services in Africa, explains that a hung council is one where no party wins an outright victory.
Upon election, the council must elect a mayor and speaker, with the mayor then appointing other members of the executive. The parties have 14 days to reach an agreement on leadership and service to their constituencies. Political analyst Nkosikhulule Nyembezi emphasizes the urgency of the situation, as the 14-day period to elect officials is mandated by law.
Although the elections took place nationwide on the same day, the election manifestos addressed issues affecting the entire country.
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