Build One South Africa (BOSA) officially introduced Nongelo Chiume as its mayoral candidate for the City of Ekurhuleni on Saturday, 11 July 2026. The announcement marks a strategic push by the party as it prepares for the upcoming municipal elections scheduled for 4 November 2026.
Professional Background And Strategic Vision
BOSA leader Mmusi Maimane praised Chiume during the announcement, highlighting her extensive professional background as a key asset for the city’s administration. Chiume brings over two decades of leadership experience in the creative economy, having served on the National Major Events Panel, the Gauteng Arts Council, and the City of Ekurhuleni Creative Council.
We hold the view that councillors and candidates need to be fit for the purpose of being mayor. In other words, you want somebody who understands how to read audit opinions. You want someone who understands deliberately and intentionally how to govern a city, and so they will be able to give effect to BOSA’s manifesto and be able to ensure that the Ekurhuleni is turned around to this economic hub that could really deliver jobs for young people.
Chiume expressed her intent to shift the municipality’s focus toward growth and international competitiveness. She stated that the city should not merely function but must actively attract investment, talent, and innovation.
Addressing Governance And Municipal Reputation
The selection of Chiume comes at a time when the City of Ekurhuleni faces persistent scrutiny regarding its financial stability and ongoing investigations into alleged corruption. Chiume has pledged to restore the integrity of the municipality, which she argues has been tarnished by associations with state capture.
Ekurhuleni has increasingly become synonymous with state capture and municipal corruption. That reputation must end. Residents deserve a municipality known for attracting investment, creating jobs and fighting crime. It is time to end the City being only known as the headquarters of state capture.
The party’s candidate selection process reflects its stated commitment to merit-based governance, aiming to appeal to voters disillusioned with the current political landscape. Observers expect BOSA to continue rolling out its electoral slate across major metros as the campaign intensifies ahead of the November polling date.