NKANGALA – The African National Congress (ANC) in Nkangala says its recent by-election victories are proof that the people still trust and have confidence in the organisation.
The party secured a landslide victory, comfortably retaining Wards 18 and 31 in Thembisile Hani Local Municipality during the by-elections held on Wednesday, June 11, 2025.
The ANC achieved 73% of the vote in Ward 18 and 70% in Ward 31, resulting in Sifiso Mabena being elected as the new councillor for Ward 18 and Nkosinathi Mahlangu for Ward 31.
This performance allowed the ANC to retain the two seats it had won in the 2021 local government elections, where it had secured 61% in Ward 18 and 51% in Ward 31. While the ANC retained both wards with strong margins, the newly formed Umkhonto Wesizwe (MK) Party made a notable entry into local politics, securing second place in both wards. The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) followed in third.
The ANC ran a vigorous campaign leading up to the elections, culminating in a final push the day before voting. ANC NEC member and Minister of Police, Senzo Mchunu, was among the key figures leading the campaign trail alongside local leadership.
“This victory is evidence that the masses continue to have confidence in our glorious movement and its leadership,” said ANC regional secretary, Sello Matshoga, in a statement.
“We accept this outcome with humility, informed by our long-held view that it is an honour to serve our people. These results are once again a confirmation that the ANC remains the people’s movement.”
Matshoga added that the ANC is best placed to lead and work with the people of South Africa towards a prosperous future where poverty, unemployment, and inequality are meaningfully addressed. “We thank our communities for the show of confidence in the ANC and its leadership,” he said.
Candidates from other parties who contested the by-elections:
Ward 18:
Abram Mahlangu (LABOUR)
Senzani Masanabo (EFF)
Moses Mnguni (INGUBO)
Ngwako Moswete (MKP)
Ward 31:
Brenda Kabini (AIPO)
Nkosinathi Mahlangu (ANC)
Asnard Masombuka (INGUBO)
Sthembiso Mbonane (LABOUR)
Elias Mbonani (EFF)
Thulani Ntuli (MKP)
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