African National Congress records its worst electoral result in South Africa's municipal elections
“Mandela's party, the African National Congress, faces its worst electoral results”
Forensic Headline Assessment: The emotional weight of the moniker 'Mandela's party' is removed to focus the headline strictly on the political fact and electoral data.
The African National Congress (ANC) obtained 30.76% of the votes in South Africa's recent municipal elections, marking the lowest level of support in its history since 1994. The final data was announced by the electoral commission on Sunday, November 8, 2026.
The ANC's electoral setback occurs in a context marked by high unemployment rates exceeding 34%, recurring problems of crime, corruption, water shortages, and failures in public services.
In second place was the Democratic Alliance (DA), the ANC's partner in the government of national unity, with 24.67% of the votes according to the electoral commission. The lack of absolute majorities in numerous municipalities will force the formation of coalitions.
South African President and ANC leader Cyril Ramaphosa stated that the people's verdict must be respected and that citizen expectations must be met, describing the process as a sign of democratic strength.
- The ANC obtained 30.76% of the votes in the municipal elections.
- The Democratic Alliance reached 24.67% of the votes.
- Official results were announced by the electoral commission on November 8, 2026.
- President Cyril Ramaphosa publicly acknowledged the result and called for respecting the citizens' mandate.
Corroborates: Mandela's party, the African National Congress, faces its worst electoral results