As count down to the pivotal local government elections in Johannesburg continues, the city finds itself ensnared in a web of increasing service delivery failures, a critical water crisis, and escalating political tension.
With these pressing issues at the forefront, four high-profile candidates are gearing up for what is shaping to be one of the most fiercely contested mayoral races in the city’s history.
For residents of South Africa’s economic powerhouse, the stakes have never been higher. Candidates will not only need to articulate their visions for the city but also address the frustrations among citizens regarding ongoing service delivery interruptions and dwindling resources.
Loyiso Masuku (who has not been officially unveiled or named yet by the ANC as its Joburg candidate) is expected to challenge Herman Mashaba, Helen Zille, and Kenny Kunene. Each of the contestants are offering sharply contrasting visions for the future of the city.
Masuku defeated Dada Morero in the ANC’s Johannesburg regional election in the fiercely contested ANC’s Johannesburg regional election. She became the first woman to win the party’s Gauteng regional leadership in the metro.
With a wealth of experience and a proven track record, this seasoned administrator is making waves in the local political arena. Serving multiple terms as a Member of the Mayoral Committee, she has overseen key portfolios including finance, infrastructure, and community development, making her exceptionally well-versed in the complexities of urban governance.
Supporters laud her for her extensive institutional knowledge, noting that her familiarity with the inner workings of local government positions her as a formidable candidate in the face of current crises.
Mashaba, the former mayor of Johannesburg, is stepping back into the political arena as he campaigns to reclaim his former office under the ActionSA banner. Having served as mayor from 2016 to 2019, Mashaba's tenure was marked by significant policy shifts and a focus on revitalising urban governance. Now, he aims to address the pressing challenges that continue to plague South Africa’s economic hub, promising a renewed commitment to municipal accountability and effective service delivery.
Mashaba’s campaign is anchored on a clear blueprint: the restoration of basic services that residents have long been deprived of a concern that resonates deeply with the electorate in an era where many municipalities face decaying infrastructure and inadequate public resources.
His hardline stance on undocumented immigration has drawn particular attention.
“If you are undocumented and you are in Johannesburg illegally, we are going to give you hell,” Mashaba said during recent campaign events. He argues that illegal immigration places severe pressure on housing, healthcare, and municipal services, and that strict enforcement is essential to restoring order and investor confidence. Critics warn such rhetoric could inflame tensions in a city with a history of xenophobic outbreaks.
Zille, officially confirmed as the Democratic Alliance mayoral candidate, brings national political experience and a governance-focused platform. Her candidacy sets the stage for a high-profile three-way contest, with a strong emphasis on transparency, service delivery, and urban management reforms.
In her acceptance speech, Zille acknowledged the tough competition she faced during the DA’s internal selection process.
"It is a privilege for me to accept the nomination as your mayoral candidate for this great city. I acknowledge with respect all the other candidates who gave me stiff competition for this honour," she said.
Taking aim at the African National Congress (ANC), Zille described Johannesburg as a city that once thrived but now reflects the consequences of poor governance.
"But the good news is that in a democracy, the people have more power than their government, if they will only use it. They can vote for change. They can evict a bad government and demand better. The greatest risk facing Joburg is that her people resign themselves to the path of failure, and give up on her promise," said the former mayor of Cape Town.
The Economic Freedom Fighters have yet to announce a candidate.
Meanwhile, it's speculated that the MKP Party may field several potential mayoral candidates: Bongani Baloyi, the former Midvaal mayor known for financial prudence and service delivery improvements; Collen Makhubele, a seasoned ANC councillor and strategist with deep knowledge of metro governance; and Busisiwe Mkhwebane, a former Public Protector with national profile and legal expertise. No official confirmation from MKP has yet been made.
Kenny Kunene, the deputy president of the Patriotic Alliance and Johannesburg’s MMC for Transport, is also running for mayor. Kunene, who has called on Morero to step down immediately, said he is ready to lead the city and has prioritised revenue collection, reclaiming hijacked buildings, and addressing migration challenges.
“I am the man for the job,” Kunene said. “You need decisive leadership. You must deal with the cause of the problem, not the effects of the problem.” He denied any personal animosity with Morero, insisting his stance is based purely on governance concerns.
As Johannesburg, the largest metropolis in Africa, teeters on the brink of crisis amid crumbling infrastructure and financial strain, the upcoming municipal elections promise to be a fierce battleground. With the water crisis deepening and public discontent surging, candidates will have to navigate a treacherous political landscape rife with challenges and expectations from the city's residents.Coalition dynamics are expected to play a decisive role once ballots are counted.
The Star