MK Party Announces Mayoral Candidates for 2026 Local Elections
The uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party revealed six candidates who will run for mayor in South Africa’s biggest metros. The announcement came after a two‑day meeting of national officials in eThekwini, KwaZulu‑Natal.
Who’s Running Where?
- Bongani Baloyi – City of Johannesburg
- Thulani Shongwe – Ekurhuleni
- Zandile Hlophe‑Mkhwanazi – eThekwini (Durban)
- Mapaseka Mothibi – Mangaung
- Mzwandile Vaaiboom – Buffalo City
- Mvuleni Mapu – Nelson Mandela Bay
Secretary‑General Sibonelo Nomvalo described the newcomers as “new flowers” that will become the public face of the party’s campaign.
Party Steps Up Election Preparations
People’s Mandate and Manifesto
The MK Party has almost finished its draft 2026 Local Government People’s Manifesto. National officials reviewed the document, and the Secretary‑General’s Office will combine their feedback before it goes to the relevant committee. The manifesto is set for official release on September 4.
Special thanks went to Dr Lucky Montana and Dr Mthanti Mthanti for leading the work on the People’s Mandate.
Growing Membership
Since June 16 the party has signed up more than 300 000 new members, a sign that confidence in the MK Party is rising.
Election Operations Centre Launch
To keep tabs on the vote, the party will open the Gwaza Election Operations Centre. The hub will:
- Show real‑time results
- Improve coordination between teams
- Help spot and respond to any irregularities or alleged vote disruptions
Leadership Appointments
International Relations
Zanele Ntuli has been appointed head of international relations. Her experience will boost the party’s links with global partners and movements.
Response to Nkandla Findings
The MK Party welcomed the latest report from the Special Investigating Unit on the Nkandla homestead upgrades. Nomvalo noted that the findings suggest other parties may share responsibility for the spending, and the MK Party will continue to support lawful investigations.
‘Asibuyele Ebantwini’ Campaign
The party launched the “Asibuyele Ebantwini” initiative, which means “let us return to the people.” Members are urged to:
- Wear green colours and regalia
- Increase visibility in neighborhoods and on social media
- Take the party’s message to every city, town, village, and household
Nomvalo promised that the MK Party will organize, mobilise, listen, and make sure no one is left behind.
Conclusion
With a fresh slate of mayoral candidates, a soon‑to‑be‑released manifesto, new operational tools, and a grassroots‑focused campaign, the MK Party is positioning itself for a strong showing in the 2026 local government elections. The party’s emphasis on transparency, youthful engagement, and direct community outreach could shape how voters view its leadership in the coming years.
