President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa has dismissed recent election surveys that show a sharp decline in support for the African National Congress (ANC) in eThekwini and other metros. Speaking to reporters during an ANC election campaign trail in eMagabheni, south of Durban, Ramaphosa expressed confidence in the party's victory on election day, November 4. He emphasized that the party's focus is on campaign work rather than predictions.
Ramaphosa's comments come amid concerns about service delivery challenges in eThekwini. However, he noted that residents appreciate the strides made by the ANC-led metro in ramping up service delivery. He expressed optimism about the ANC's prospects in eThekwini, citing efforts to revamp the area into a mega city. Ramaphosa interacted with local residents, including 78-year-old Abigail Maluleka, who shared her concerns about unemployment and access to membership cards for certain political parties.
Maluleka's concerns reflect broader challenges faced by residents in eThekwini. Ramaphosa acknowledged the issues and assured residents that their plight would soon be addressed. He announced that water infrastructure was being rolled out across eThekwini, with water tankers procured as an interim measure to ensure a steady water supply. The ANC is working to address the concerns of residents and improve service delivery in the area.
Ramaphosa's visit to eThekwini comes days after the army was deployed to the area to support the police in response to anti-illegal immigration protests that turned violent. He vowed that the government was ready to act against those who engage in acts of violence and emphasized the army's role in supporting the police. The ANC is seeking to reassure residents and demonstrate its commitment to addressing their concerns.
During his visit, Ramaphosa was accompanied by ANC KwaZulu-Natal coordinator Mike Mabuyakhulu and eThekwini mayoral candidate Thabani Nyawose. He also visited the home of local pastor Nkosinathi Njapha, who prayed for the ANC to win the elections in eThekwini. The ANC is working to mobilize support and build momentum ahead of the elections.
Ramaphosa's campaign efforts are focused on engaging with residents and addressing their concerns. He expressed confidence in the ANC's victory in eThekwini, citing the party's efforts to improve service delivery and address the challenges faced by residents. The ANC is seeking to demonstrate its commitment to the people of eThekwini and build trust ahead of the elections.
The ANC's prospects in eThekwini are being closely watched ahead of the elections on November 4. Ramaphosa's visit and comments reflect the party's efforts to address concerns and build support in the area. The outcome of the elections will depend on various factors, including the ANC's ability to address the challenges faced by residents and build momentum ahead of the polls.
Key points
- President Cyril Ramaphosa dismisses election surveys showing a decline in ANC support in eThekwini and other metros.
- Ramaphosa expresses confidence in the ANC's victory on election day, November 4.
- The ANC is working to address concerns about service delivery challenges in eThekwini and build momentum ahead of the elections.
