Ramaphosa to Helm ANC 2026 Election Campaign 🇿🇦

President Cyril Ramaphosa will lead the African National Congress (ANC) into the 2026 local government election campaign, following a National General Council (NGC) meeting marked by a display of unity. The ANC is aiming to reverse its declining electoral support after losing its overall majority in 2024.

Ramaphosa to Lead 2026 Election Campaign

The ANC concluded its NGC with a show of unity, dispelling reports of a plot to remove President Ramaphosa. Bolstered by a successful G20 summit, Ramaphosa will spearhead the party’s local government campaign in 2026/27, ensuring he will remain in office at least until the party elects his replacement in 2027.

Mbalula Emerges as Potential Successor

ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula has emerged as a candidate to run for the ANC presidency. His organizational report at the NGC received a standing ovation from nearly 1,600 delegates, potentially setting up a contest with Deputy President Paul Mashatile at the 2027 elective conference.

ANC Aims to ‘Detenderise’ the State

The ANC has resolved to address the “tenderisation and outsourcing of state functions,” which it believes has weakened the democratic state’s capacity for development. The party also highlighted the importance of transparency in procurement, pointing to the National Treasury’s new dashboard as a tool to prevent corruption.

‘Existential Crisis’ for the ANC

The ANC has acknowledged it is facing an “existential crisis,” stating the struggle is at a crossroads of renewal or decline. Despite this, Ramaphosa expressed confidence in the movement’s ability to overcome challenges.

Reclaiming Support from the Black Middle Class

The ANC plans to focus on regaining the support of the black middle class, acknowledging that poor service delivery and corruption have alienated this demographic. The party intends to campaign against attacks on Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) policies.

Integrity Committee to Gain Independence, NHI Implementation to Proceed

Ramaphosa noted an increase in members stepping aside when facing corruption-related charges. Delegates agreed to grant the Integrity Committee greater independence. The council also resolved to proceed with the implementation of the National Health Insurance (NHI), despite ongoing court cases against it, as indicated by the Institute for Justice and Reconciliation Annual Barometer.

The latest Ipsos poll suggests the ANC would receive 41% of the national vote if an election were held immediately.