ANC President Cyril Ramaphosa says only committed and trustworthy candidates can help restore voter confidence and secure a win in the upcoming 2026 local government elections. ANC presidentCyril Ramaphosasays the upcoming 2026 local government elections will be a vital test for the party, and that to secure victory it must field its most “dedicated, honest and capable candidates.” Ramaphosa made the remarks on Thursday during his closing address at the National General Council (NGC) meeting at the Birchwood Hotel in Ekurhuleni, where the organisation reviewed its performance. He said the NGC acknowledged that local government remains the sphere of government closest to the daily lives of South Africans.
“Accordingly, the role of local government in all socioeconomic transformation is central to the development agenda of our country. He warned against political meddling in procurement processes, water services and general municipal operations. Ramaphosa added that as the review of the White Paper on Local Government continues, ANC structures must ensure the resulting framework meets all objectives of an improved and accountable local government system.
