The African National Congress (ANC) has clinched a narrow victory in a highly contested by-election in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), securing 51.9% of the vote. The win comes as a relief for the party, which has faced declining support in the province following previous losses to rivals, including the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party and the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP).
A Test of ANC’s Renewal Strategy
The ANC’s performance in recent by-elections had raised concerns over its political dominance, particularly after losing several wards in KZN. However, party leaders have hailed this latest result as evidence that its internal “renewal drive” is gaining traction.
“What is different now is that we understand the context of our renewal,” an ANC representative stated. “We put people first and listen to their concerns. From there, we are able to act.”
The ANC has faced criticism over governance failures in some of its municipalities, including mismanagement and maladministration. Party officials acknowledge these challenges but insist they are taking steps to address them.
“If anything contrary to the ANC’s constitution has happened, the ANC will have to act—and act decisively,” a spokesperson said. A decision on an ongoing investigation into officials in the uThukela Municipality is expected soon.
Gauging Strength Ahead of 2026 Local Elections
With local government elections looming next year, the ANC says it will use these by-election results to assess its standing in KZN. The IFP and MK Party remain strong competitors, and the ANC’s slim majority suggests a fiercely contested battle ahead.
Political analysts warn that while this victory provides temporary relief, the ANC must demonstrate tangible improvements in governance and service delivery to regain lost ground.
