Ramaphosa says ANC remains focused on winning eThekwini despite MK lead

President Cyril Ramaphosa has dismissed recent polls indicating the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party is ahead of the African National Congress (ANC) in eThekwini. During a door-to-door campaign in KwaZulu-Natal, Ramaphosa expressed confidence in the ANC's ability to win the metro. He stated that the party is focused on its campaign and not swayed by polling figures.

According to an Ipsos poll, the MK Party leads with 55% in eThekwini among respondents who expressed a party preference. The Democratic Alliance (DA) follows with 17%, while the ANC trails with 10%. Despite these figures, Ramaphosa remains optimistic about the ANC's chances. He emphasized that the party has experienced leaders ready to take charge of the metro if they secure victory.

Ramaphosa highlighted the ANC's experience in governance as a key factor in its ability to run the municipality effectively. He stated that the party has a deep understanding of the needs of the metro and is best positioned to address them. The President also pointed out that residents are responding positively to the ANC's campaign, expressing confidence in the party's ability to deliver.

The ANC's campaign in eThekwini is part of a broader effort to reclaim the metro. Ramaphosa's visit to KwaZulu-Natal is aimed at galvanizing support for the party and showcasing its vision for the region. He has been engaging with residents, listening to their concerns, and outlining the ANC's plans to address them.

In addition to campaigning, Ramaphosa also addressed the deployment of soldiers to support police in KwaZulu-Natal. He defended the decision, stating that it was made in response to requests from residents and local leadership. The President emphasized that the army is not replacing police officers but rather providing support to enhance their effectiveness.

Ramaphosa noted that similar deployments of the army in other parts of the country have yielded positive results. He expressed confidence that the same would be true in KwaZulu-Natal, where the army is working alongside police to address community concerns. The President's comments come ahead of the local government elections, which are expected to be closely contested.

The ANC is widely seen as a major player in South African politics, and its performance in eThekwini will be closely watched. Ramaphosa's comments suggest that the party is determined to make a strong showing in the metro, despite polling figures that suggest otherwise. The outcome of the elections will have significant implications for the region and the country as a whole.

Key points

• ANC remains focused on winning eThekwini despite polls showing MK Party in the lead.
• Ramaphosa defends deployment of soldiers to support police in KwaZulu-Natal.
• ANC confident of victory, citing experience in governance and positive response from residents.