BLOEMFONTEIN, FREE STATE — ANC President Cyril Ramaphosa has officially concluded his ANC LGE 2026 campaign trail in Mangaung, expressing strong confidence in the party’s unity and electoral prospects just over a week before the municipal polls.
Speaking to the media in Batho, Mangaung, Ramaphosa projected a unified front, stating that there is currently nothing that can derail the African National Congress’s campaign to win the upcoming local government elections outright.
Constitutional Court Victory and Party Unity
The campaign wrap-up comes on the heels of a significant legal victory for the ruling party. Ramaphosa noted that the ANC is more united than ever following a recent Constitutional Court ruling that found in favor of the party regarding its candidates list case.
Addressing the internal dynamics of the party, Ramaphosa acknowledged that while challenges are inevitable, the organization has successfully navigated recent hurdles.
“We are united as an organization. Like any other organization, there will always be issues that arise, like we had an election registration issue of candidates,” Ramaphosa explained. “We’re over that now and that is now behind us. The good thing about the ANC is that when we encounter challenges and problems, we find solutions and once those solutions are found, we unite, we close ranks and we move forward.”
He emphasized that this unity and resolution of internal challenges is precisely what has transpired leading up to the final days of the campaign.
Focus on Service Delivery in Mangaung
Despite the political momentum, the ANC faces a complex governance landscape in the Free State’s only Metro Municipality. Mangaung has been under national administration since April 2022 following a financial collapse, characterized by unfunded budgets and severe service delivery failures.
However, Ramaphosa stated he is highly impressed with the current trajectory of his party’s leaders in the province. He noted that his recent visit to the area showed marked improvements compared to his previous trips, attributing this to the dedication of local leadership.
“My comrades have shown great commitment to really working for our people and correcting some of the things that prevailed that I observed,” Ramaphosa said. He extended his gratitude to the provincial leadership and local structures, specifically thanking the premier, the provincial chairperson, the mayor, and the councilors for their “incredible work” in addressing the challenges faced by residents.
Looking Beyond the Ballot
As the final week of the LGE 2026 campaign unfolds, the ANC President stressed that the ultimate goal of their political efforts extends far beyond securing votes.
“I do think it’s not so much for the elections, it’s much more to address the needs of our people,” Ramaphosa concluded, reinforcing the party’s message that improving the daily lives of citizens remains the core objective of their local government mandate.
