Article re-cap
- The ANC has concluded interviews with eight candidates for the Cape Town mayoral position.
- The party's National Executive Committee (NEC) is expected to announce its decision by the end of the month.
- Candidates are being considered under the ANC's new Centralised Mayoral Selection Programme, which opened nominations to the public for the first time.
- Shortlisted candidates include ANC Dullah Omar regional chairperson Ndithini Tyhido and Western Cape ANC leader Jeremiah Thuynsma, among others.
The ANC has concluded interviews with several candidates for its Cape Town mayoral position ahead of the 2026 local government elections.
The party is searching for a candidate to lead its campaign in the city, where it secured 18% of the vote during the 2021 local government elections. The selection process follows the ANC's new Centralised Mayoral Selection Programme, which allowed members of the public to nominate candidates for metropolitan municipalities.
Shortlisted candidates interviewed last week included ANC Dullah Omar regional chairperson Ndithini Tyhido and Western Cape ANC leader Jeremiah Thuynsma. Other interviewed individuals were Zelda Tarntraal, Marieldia Cougly, Fiona Abrahams, Lwazi Phakade, Ernest Theron, and Luvuyo Zondani.
The National Executive Committee is expected to decide on the candidate to lead the campaign. Ndithini Tyhido said the party expects the committee to announce its decision by the end of the month.
According to Tyhido, the appointed leader must address serious governance issues and high tariffs that residents are struggling with. He stated that whoever leads the campaign must be able to remove the DA from power.
ANC Dullah Omar Regional Youth League spokesperson Asemahle Gwala said the league seeks a candidate who will prioritise the housing crisis and equitable service delivery. Gwala noted that communities where black people live continue to receive fewer resources according to the Public Protector's report.
Frequently asked questions
Who are the eight candidates the ANC interviewed for Cape Town mayor?
The ANC interviewed Ndithini Tyhido (regional chairperson), Jeremiah Thuynsma (Western Cape leader), Zelda Tarntraal, Marieldia Cougly, Fiona Abrahams, Lwazi Phakade (Langa councillor), Ernest Theron (PR councillor), and Luvuyo Zondani (disability rights activist).
When will the ANC announce its mayoral candidate for Cape Town?
The ANC's National Executive Committee is expected to announce its decision by the end of the month, according to regional chairperson Ndithini Tyhido.
What issues does the ANC candidate need to address in Cape Town?
According to Tyhido, the appointed leader must address serious governance issues and high tariffs affecting residents. The Youth League also emphasises the housing crisis and equitable service delivery across communities.
Why is the ANC selecting a new mayoral candidate?
The ANC is preparing for the 2026 local government elections. The party secured only 18 percent of the vote in Cape Town during the 2021 elections and needs a strong candidate to lead its campaign.
Source: iol.co.za
