Forty-one candidates are contesting the Ward 68 councillor seat in Cape Town, covering Steenberg, Lavender Hill and Retreat, ahead of the local government elections on 4 November 2026. The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) certified the final candidate lists for this vote on 16 September 2026.
Ward 68 is a key battleground in Cape Town’s 118 wards, with a total of 4,950 ward candidates contesting across the city in this election cycle. The contest in Ward 68 draws significant attention due to local challenges including service delivery, infrastructure, housing, safety, and youth opportunities in communities long affected by inequality and crime.
The certified list for Ward 68 features candidates from major political parties, such as Marita Johanna Petersen for the Democratic Alliance (DA), Lueren Prince representing the African National Congress (ANC), and Shahied Joseph from the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF). These candidates have each outlined their priorities in the campaign.
Marita Petersen of the DA emphasised that, “Investment in ward 68 is not simply an investment in buildings, roads, parks or infrastructure – it is an investment in our people and in the future of our communities.” Petersen’s statement reflected a focus on holistic community development beyond physical improvements.
Lueren Prince of the ANC stressed the importance of leadership qualities, stating, “I believe leadership requires more than promises. It requires initiative, accountability, compassion and the willingness to do the work, even when the challenges are difficult.”
EFF candidate Shahied Joseph underlined residents’ demand for tangible progress, saying, “Residents want practical results, cleaner streets and parks, and a councillor who is accessible and willing to listen.” Joseph’s pitch highlighted the need for improved service delivery and community engagement.
The Southern Mail’s 15 October feature on Ward 68’s elections aligns with the IEC-certified information and confirms that campaigning is intensifying ahead of the 4 November vote. The official final candidate lists are available in the IEC’s public records for verification.
Local voters in Ward 68 face a decision that could determine the direction of service delivery and community development in their areas. Effective leadership in this ward is critical given persistent issues such as crime and infrastructural inequalities that directly affect residents’ daily lives.
While campaign activities by other candidates remain less documented publicly, the presence of 41 contenders signals a highly competitive race. Independent verification of their full roster and grassroots support is pending as the election date approaches.
Cape Flats News journalists monitored the region but could not independently confirm presence at all candidate events or exhaustive campaign activities. The IEC remains the authoritative source for certified candidate information.
Residents of Steenberg, Lavender Hill, and Retreat will cast their votes on 4 November, shaping who will take responsibility for local governance in one of Cape Town’s most contested wards.
The Cape Flats News team will provide updates following election results and insights into the implications for Ward 68 communities.