The African National Congress (ANC) has narrowly retained control of Ward 109 in Etwatwa, Ekurhuleni — but with a dramatic plunge in support that signals shifting political winds ahead of the 2025 local elections.
Preliminary results show the ANC securing 37%, a sharp fall from the 69% it obtained in the previous election. While the party keeps the ward, analysts say the numbers reflect growing frustration among residents over service delivery backlogs and rising political alternatives.
The biggest story of the night came from ActionSA, which delivered a remarkable breakthrough by skyrocketing from 4% to 25%. The party’s ground campaign and messaging on accountability appear to have resonated strongly with first-time voters and disillusioned ANC supporters.
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) edged up slightly to 20%, maintaining its position as a significant challenger in the area. Meanwhile, the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party made a strong debut with 15%, cementing its growing national footprint in township wards.
Smaller parties also made minor showings: the African Christian Party (ACP) secured 2%, and the Pan Africanist Congress (PAC) registered 1%.
Voter turnout, however, told another story of public disengagement. Participation dropped severely from 48% to 28%, raising concerns about apathy and declining trust in local governance.
Notably, the Democratic Alliance (DA) — which previously earned 6% — opted not to contest the ward this time.
With political competition intensifying and voter loyalty increasingly fluid, Ward 109 may be a sign of deeper realignments to come as South Africa heads toward the 2025 elections.