The African National Congress (ANC) has managed to retain control of Ward 8 in Smersha Block, Northam, Thabazimbi, but with a significantly diminished majority. The ANC’s support dropped sharply from 55% in the previous election to just 32%, reflecting increasing discontent in this iron ore mining area, which has traditionally been a stronghold for the party.
In contrast, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) and the Labour Party made notable gains. The EFF, which increased its support from 15% to 25%, is gaining traction among younger voters and mineworkers who are demanding economic transformation. The Labour Party, with 20% of the vote, also made a strong showing, signaling a growing influence among workers seeking better wages and conditions.
ANC holds Ward 8 (Smersha Block Northam) Thabazimbi
ANC 32% (55%)
EFF 25% (15%)
Labour 20%
Ind-Rabolele 7%
TRA 5% (13%)
FF+ 4% (3%)
DA 3% (10%)
MK 2%
Poll 32% (35%)
ANC and DA lose ground in another Northam ward
EFF and Labour make good ground in the iron ore belt.— Wayne Sussman (@waynesussman) December 5, 2024
The Democratic Alliance (DA) continued its downward trend, securing only 3% of the vote, a significant drop from 10% in the last election. The Thabazimbi Residents Association (TRA) and the ANC-aligned Freedom Front Plus (FF+) showed mixed results, with TRA’s support plummeting from 13% to 5%, while FF+ saw a modest increase to 4%.
Other newcomers to the scene, such as the MK Party and independent candidate Rabolele, garnered 2% and 7% of the vote, respectively, further illustrating the dissatisfaction with traditional political parties.
Political analysts point to the region’s ongoing issues with poor service delivery and high unemployment as key drivers behind the decline in support for both the ANC and DA. “The iron ore belt is becoming a battleground for parties promising radical change,” said political analyst Thabo Mokoena.
With voter turnout at 32%, slightly down from 35% in the previous election, the results highlight a shifting political landscape in Thabazimbi. The rise of the EFF and Labour Party suggests a potential shakeup in future elections as the ANC faces growing pressure to maintain its influence. Whether these trends continue or represent the start of a more fragmented political future in Northam remains to be seen.
