ANC Opens Mayor Selection to the Public

The African National Congress (ANC) is trying something new for the 2026 local government elections. For the first time, anyone living in South Africa – even if they are not a party member – can suggest a person to run for mayor in the country’s biggest cities.

Why the ANC Changed Its Approach

After losing its outright national majority in the 2024 elections, the ANC heard growing complaints about broken water pipes, pothole‑filled streets, and corruption in town halls. Party leaders realized that the old way of picking candidates – relying mainly on long‑time members – was not connecting with many voters, especially younger people living in urban areas.

How the New Process Works

Who Can Nominate?

Any South African can submit a name for mayor in one of the eight metropolitan municipalities or the 28 key secondary cities. You can even nominate yourself.

What Happens After a Nomination?

The ANC’s new Centralised Mayoral Selection Programme reviews all suggestions. If a nominee is not already an ANC member, they will need to join the party and sign a declaration under Rule 4.16 of the ANC Constitution before the final list is released – expected by June 26, 2026.

Eligibility and Vetting Rules

Basic Requirements

• At least an NQF Level 7 qualification (equivalent to a bachelor’s degree or similar)
• Minimum five years of senior‑level experience in public finance, governance, or local‑government administration

Automatic Disqualifiers

• A conviction for dishonesty (fraud, theft, etc.) in the last ten years
• Currently under any ANC “step‑aside” disciplinary measure
• Negative findings in reports from the Auditor‑General, Special Investigating Unit, or Public Protector

What Experts Are Saying

Political Analyst Kenneth Kgwadi

Kgwadi believes the ANC is admitting it no longer has enough talent inside its own ranks to run big cities effectively. He says the move is aimed at attracting capable administrators who are not tied to any internal faction, which could reduce infighting.

ANC Head of Policy and Research Fébé Potgieter‑Gqubule

Potgieter‑Gqubule explains that research showed South Africans want more say in who leads their towns. She compares mayors to CEOs of cities, stressing the need for people who can manage complex budgets and improve services.

Possible Effects on the 2026 Elections

Urban Areas

By opening the process, the ANC hopes to win back trust among middle‑class voters in metros like Johannesburg, Ekurhuleni, and Tshwane. Fresh faces with strong management skills could improve service delivery and convince voters that the party is listening.

Rural Concerns

Kgwadi warns that focusing mainly on cities might leave the ANC’s rural base feeling ignored. Parties such as the Economic Freedom Fighters or newer movements could gain ground where people are unhappy with poor infrastructure and perceived arrogance of local leaders.

Conclusion

The ANC’s decision to let the public nominate mayoral candidates marks a significant shift from its traditional, closed‑door selection method. While the move aims to bring in skilled administrators and reduce internal party battles, its success will depend on how well the party balances urban outreach with the needs of its rural supporters. If the new process leads to better‑run municipalities and renewed voter confidence, it could reshape South Africa’s local politics for years to come.