GAUTENG — Patriotic Alliance Deputy President and Johannesburg mayoral hopeful Kenny Kunene has expressed strong confidence in his party’s electoral prospects, asserting that the electorate’s past support proves the organization is deeply loved and poised for success in the upcoming November 4 polls. Speaking at the party’s “Siya iThata iJoburg” final election rally in Soweto, Kunene wrapped up the campaign by placing the party’s fate directly in the hands of the voters.
Kunene emphasized that previous elections have proven the Patriotic Alliance has a bright future, effectively silencing critics who doubted his ability to secure the mayoral position. “They have said Kenny Kunene will not be the mayor… next day we are going to take over,” he declared to a cheering crowd, dismissing those who have historically underestimated the party.
Echoing this optimism, PA representative Gana noted that the 2024 general elections and recent by-elections indicate the party will once again surprise political analysts. This confidence comes amidst widespread predictions that Johannesburg will require a coalition government following the vote. Over its 13 years of existence, the PA has grown to become the sixth-largest party in the National Assembly and a key partner in the Government of National Unity. The party is currently contesting in all major metros and nearly every municipality across the country.
Tasked with the challenging role of leading the “city of gold,” Kunene promised a sweeping transformation of Johannesburg. Framing his candidacy in spiritual terms, he claimed to be anointed by God for the role, comparing his political journey to the biblical trials and triumphs of Moses, David, and Paul. “Look what God does,” Kunene remarked, highlighting a path he believes was divinely crafted.
Addressing internal and external criticisms, Kunene firmly rejected the label that the Patriotic Alliance is exclusively a “coloured party.” Instead, he rebranded the organization as a truly patriotic movement that loves all South Africans regardless of race, describing it as a “colorful party” rather than a racially exclusive one.
Furthermore, Kunene reiterated the party’s uncompromising stance on immigration, a cornerstone of their political platform. He pledged to make Johannesburg a “no-go zone for illegal immigrants” if elected mayor. Unapologetically outlining his first-month agenda, Kunene promised to establish a specialized “pass team” within 30 days of taking office. This unit would collaborate directly with the Department of Home Affairs to identify and remove undocumented individuals from the city.
With the campaign trail now concluded, the Patriotic Alliance will await the November 4 election results to see if their upward political trajectory continues and if Kunene will secure the mayoral seat in South Africa’s economic hub.
