President Cyril Ramaphosa has appealed to political parties to put residents' needs ahead of positions and political power as they negotiate the formation of municipal governments following the 2026 local government elections. Speaking in Midrand on Sunday, Ramaphosa emphasized that voters expect functioning councils and reliable services. He stressed that municipal stability must not be sacrificed for political interests.
Ramaphosa's appeal comes as parties prepare to negotiate governing arrangements in municipalities where no party secured an outright majority. He said the election outcomes reflect voters' choices and place a responsibility on elected representatives to find common ground. The President urged parties to negotiate in good faith to elect office-bearers and pass municipal budgets on time.
The President emphasized that the stability of municipalities and the delivery of essential services cannot be held hostage by political disagreements. He called on incoming councillors to listen to residents, respond to their needs, and act with honesty and integrity. Ramaphosa noted that residents want basic services such as water, reliable electricity, refuse collection, and safe streets.
Ramaphosa said new councillors would take office against the backdrop of proposed changes to local government. The revised White Paper on Local Government envisages measures to strengthen municipal finances, improve infrastructure maintenance, and make services more reliable. He also thanked the Electoral Commission, election officials, security services, and observers for their roles in the elections.
The 2026 local government elections saw 14.9 million voters cast ballots, according to the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC). Ramaphosa's comments come amid high living costs, unemployment, and widespread dissatisfaction with municipal services. He stressed that all who seek public office must be judged by one standard: whether they deliver on their promises.
Ramaphosa called on South Africans to remain involved and hold their representatives accountable. He said the people's verdict must be respected, their concerns must be heard, and their expectations must now be met. The President's remarks were made as parties prepare to form councils and negotiate power-sharing arrangements.
The President's appeal for cooperation and prioritization of residents' needs is seen as crucial in ensuring that municipalities function effectively and provide essential services to residents. With the formation of municipal councils underway, parties will need to work together to meet the expectations of voters and address the challenges facing local government.
Key points
- President Ramaphosa has urged parties to prioritize residents' needs over political power struggles in forming municipal councils.
- The President emphasized the importance of municipal stability and the delivery of essential services.
- Ramaphosa called on South Africans to remain involved and hold their representatives accountable.
