African People’s Convention says it will contest local polls in seven provinces

African People’s Convention leader Themba Godi said the party would contest 2026 local government elections in 7 of South Africa’s 9 provinces, SABC reported on October 11.

At a campaign event in Driehoek near Mahikeng, Godi said the party would not stand in the Western Cape or Northern Cape. He described its selection of municipalities as part of a strategy to rebuild its support base.

In North West province, the party plans to contest 4 municipalities in Bojanala district, excluding Kgetlheng. In Ngaka Modiri Molema district, it intends to field candidates in 3 municipalities: Ratlou, Mahikeng and Ditsobotla.

Godi said the APC had focused on municipalities where it believed it could win council seats rather than fielding candidates everywhere. Rebuilding its presence in rural areas is a particular aim.

Residents interviewed in SABC’s report complained about inadequate water supplies, electricity problems and a lack of social services. They said they wanted political parties to deliver changes after elections rather than make promises only during campaigns.