Media Statement

On 22 and 23 August 2026, the African National Congress (ANC) presented its nominated mayoral candidates and launched its Local Government Elections Manifesto, anchored on six core pillars. The national attention generated by these events affirmed the ANC’s enduring stature as a people’s movement and its responsibility to lead society in advancing the interests and aspirations of South Africans.

The decision to host the Manifesto Launch in Riverside, Diepsloot, continued the ANC’s commitment to taking major political events directly to communities. It affirmed the centrality of the people in shaping the organisation’s programme and gave practical expression to the Freedom Charter’s injunction that “The People Shall Govern.”

The ANC has adopted rigorous selection criteria to identify ethical, capable and qualified leaders, from within and beyond its membership, who understand the developmental responsibilities of local government. The final mayoral candidates will be announced in September following a thorough internal process grounded in credibility, community confidence, competence and fitness for purpose.

Through its six-pillar Manifesto, the ANC has acknowledged weaknesses in local government and committed itself to decisive self-correction. The organisation will intensify efforts to fight corruption, strengthen governance, unblock service delivery, create jobs and invest in infrastructure, while consulting communities across the country.

Encouraged by the overwhelming turnout in Diepsloot and the strong representation of women among its mayoral nominees, the ANC enters the elections confident, renewed and determined to reclaim lost ground and build better communities.

The ANC extends its profound gratitude to the people of South Africa, particularly the community of Diepsloot, for their warm reception, overwhelming participation and enduring confidence in the movement. We also thank our members, supporters, volunteers and all those who contributed to the success of these historic events. The ANC will honour this support through disciplined service, continued engagement with communities and decisive action to fix local government, improve service delivery and build a better life for all.

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