The African National Congress (ANC) in Johannesburg has submitted a new list of potential mayoral candidates to the party’s national leadership at Luthuli House as the city prepares for the 2026 local government elections. The shortlist, confirmed by regional secretary Sasabona Manganye on 9 June 2026, noticeably excludes the current Executive Mayor, Dada Morero, who had been serving his second term since August 2024.
Contenders Under Consideration
Sources have indicated that the Regional Executive Committee (REC) has nominated Loyiso Masuku as its primary candidate for the position. Other figures reportedly under consideration alongside Masuku include Reverend Frank Chikane, former Cabinet minister Jabu Moleketi, businesswoman Chichi Maponya, and public figure Nhlanhla Lux.
Addressing the reports regarding his potential nomination, Reverend Frank Chikane dismissed the claims as speculative. During a recent media engagement, he stated, “I do not talk about things that are in the media without a source. You will not get anything from me. I do not comment on that. If it is official, I would tell you, but I do not make comments about speculation.”
Governance and Service Delivery Concerns
The internal ANC selection process arrives as Johannesburg faces mounting pressure regarding infrastructure stability, financial management, and service delivery. Busisiwe Mavuso, CEO of Business Leadership South Africa (BLSA), recently criticised the current administrative climate, noting that the city’s operational and financial condition has regressed.
I think things have definitely gotten worse under Mayor Dada Morero.
The governing party is seeking to restore public trust by evaluating candidates who might offer a shift in management style during the upcoming electoral cycle. All eyes remain on Luthuli House as the party finalises its leadership strategy for South Africa’s largest metropolitan municipality.