ActionSA open to Joburg coalition with DA if Zille's not mayoral candidate

ActionSA has expressed willingness to form a coalition with the Democratic Alliance (DA) in the City of Johannesburg, provided Helen Zille is not the DA's mayoral candidate. This development comes after the local government elections, where no party secured an outright majority. Coalition negotiations are currently underway. ActionSA's national chairperson, Michael Beaumont, cited concerns about Zille's track record in destabilizing and collapsing coalition governments.

The DA emerged as the largest party in Johannesburg, securing 34% of the vote. However, they need an additional 17% to reach the required 50% plus one majority to elect Zille as mayor. ActionSA has already met with the African National Congress (ANC) and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) for coalition talks. The party is keen on finding a mutually beneficial arrangement that could see them governing Johannesburg, Ekurhuleni, and Tshwane together.

ActionSA and the DA have yet to meet for coalition talks. Beaumont mentioned that his party has communicated its concerns regarding Zille and any possible mayoral team she could lead. He attributed this to her history of destabilizing coalitions from Cape Town. The DA, however, remains determined to secure Johannesburg and build a numerical majority that would see Zille elected as mayor.

The local government elections resulted in several hung councils, prompting coalition talks among parties. ActionSA's leader has defended working with the ANC to ensure service delivery and stability. The party insists on retaining Nasiphi Moya as Tshwane's mayor in any coalition deal. Mashaba emphasized the importance of stability and service delivery in municipalities.

Coalition negotiations are proving challenging, with parties seeking mutually beneficial arrangements. The ANC structures are set to hold exploratory talks with possible coalition partners. The outcome of these talks will determine the governance structure in various municipalities, including Johannesburg, Ekurhuleni, and Tshwane.

The DA's mayoral candidate, Helen Zille, has faced criticism from ActionSA. Malema threatened legal action against Zille over alleged defamatory claims. The DA's prospects of securing Johannesburg depend on forming a coalition with other parties. Zille's election as mayor would require a numerical majority.

The final outcome of the coalition talks remains uncertain. ActionSA's willingness to work with the DA, provided Zille is not the mayoral candidate, adds a layer of complexity to the negotiations. The parties involved must navigate these challenges to form stable and effective governance structures in the affected municipalities.

Key points

• ActionSA is open to a coalition with the DA in Johannesburg if Helen Zille is not the mayoral candidate.