97% of votes counted as ANC leads nationally in local elections
South Africa's 2026 local government elections are nearing completion with 97% of votes counted. The ANC remains the leading party, but faces significant challenges from the DA and the MK Party, necessitating potential coalition negotiations.
Why it matters
The shift toward coalition governance in South Africa signals a major change in the country's political landscape and stability.
The vote counting is at 97% complete and counting.
South Africa's 2026 Local Government Election results are nearing completion, with 97% of voting districts counted and political parties beginning to position themselves for crucial coalition negotiations.
The emerging results point to a changing political landscape, with the African National Congress (ANC) retaining its lead nationally but facing significant losses as opposition parties strengthen their support.
According to preliminary results, the ANC is leading in 115 councils and has outright control of 48, with almost 31% of the national vote.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) is leading in 27 councils and controls 11, with almost 25% of the vote.
The uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MK Party) is leading in 18 councils, with nearly 10% of the national vote, while the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) is also leading in 18 councils and controls five, with almost 5% of the vote.
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