As South Africa gears up for its local government elections on November 4, the African National Congress (ANC) is poised to reveal its candidate for the mayoral race in Johannesburg, one of the country’s most hotly contested metropolitan areas. Currently, the city is under the governance of an ANC-led coalition, with Dada Morero serving as the executive mayor. However, Morero’s continuation as the ANC’s choice for mayor has been in doubt since he lost his position as the party’s Greater Johannesburg regional chairperson in 2025.
The ANC’s internal candidate-selection process was expanded after an initial nomination did not meet the national standards set by the party. Reverend Frank Chikane has emerged as a prominent candidate through this selection process, gaining attention after interviews with potential candidates were conducted by the ANC.
Meanwhile, other major political parties have already finalized their nominations for Johannesburg’s mayoral position. The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) have put forward Dr. Tlaleng Mofokeng, and ActionSA has chosen former Johannesburg mayor Herman Mashaba as their candidate. The Democratic Alliance (DA) opted for Helen Zille, who previously served as the mayor of Cape Town and the premier of the Western Cape.
The Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) has nominated Mlungisi Mabaso, while other parties such as Rise Mzansi, BOSA, the Land Party, and Al Jama-ah have also announced their respective candidates. The upcoming election is anticipated to focus heavily on pressing issues such as service delivery, infrastructure, water, electricity, housing, crime, and local economic development in Johannesburg.