ActionSA has successfully ended the ANC's long-standing hold on Ekurhuleni's Ward 6 in Tembisa, securing the ward with 38.84% of the vote in the recent local government elections. The ward, covering six sections including Isiziba, Endulwini, Ibazelo, Isithame, Igqagqa, and Lidinga, had been an ANC stronghold for 20 years. In the 2021 local elections, the ANC won with 64.3% of the vote.
ActionSA's Ekurhuleni ward 6 branch secretary, Fihliwe Nkohlisa, attributed the party's success to its efforts in building its presence in the area over the past eight months. The party launched its ward campaign in March with a small membership but has since grown to over 700 members. Nkohlisa expressed satisfaction with the election outcome, citing the party's work in addressing residents' concerns.
Residents who spoke to The Sowetan expressed hope that the new administration would bring more responsive leadership to the area. Thandiwe Dlokolo, a Tembisa resident, said she was pleased with the election of councillor-elect Xolani Khumalo, citing his previous involvement in community matters. Khumalo's leadership is expected to address issues such as poor service delivery, unemployment, and substance abuse.
The ANC, under the leadership of its Ekurhuleni mayoral candidate, councillor-elect Xolani Khumalo, secured 4,587 votes, finishing 6.2 percentage points behind ActionSA. Nkohlisa said the party had worked to assist residents with issues ranging from burst sewer pipes to electricity outages. The party also tried to communicate with residents when it could not resolve their complaints.
Residents highlighted concerns such as unemployment, crime, and substance abuse, particularly among young people. Siyabonga Mnguni, a 27-year-old unemployed resident, expressed hope that the change in political leadership would bring better opportunities. Mnguni relies on the R370 social relief of distress grant, which is barely enough for his needs.
Mziwenkosi Jacobs, a teacher at a local school, cited recurring water and electricity outages, delays in installing speed humps, and an unused sports field at a nearby school as issues requiring attention. Jacobs hopes the incoming administration would be accessible and respond more effectively to residents' concerns.
The change in leadership has brought a sense of optimism to the community, with residents expecting more responsive and effective governance. ActionSA's win in Ward 6 marks a significant shift in the local political landscape, with the party poised to address the area's challenges and improve service delivery.
Key points
- ActionSA won Ward 6 in Tembisa with 38.84% of the vote, ending the ANC's 20-year stronghold.
- The party's success is attributed to its efforts in building its presence in the area over the past eight months.
- Residents expect the new administration to address concerns such as unemployment, crime, and substance abuse.
