Action SA confident its alliance with ANC in Joburg will last

Newly elected Johannesburg Council Speaker Nobuhle Mthembu has expressed confidence that Action SA’s newfound alliance with the ANC will endure until the next local government elections in 2026.

Speaking in Johannesburg today, following her victory over the DA’s Nonhlanhla Sifumba for the speakership, Mthembu emphasized her party’s commitment to working with the ANC to ensure stability in the city.

Mthembu secured 180 votes, beating Sifumba who only garnered 68 votes, with 4 spoilt ballots confirmed by the IEC.

The significant shift came after Action SA leader Herman Mashaba had previously voiced strong objections to partnering with the ANC, saying he could not work with corrupt officials.

There is speculation that Action SA’s bid for the speaker role may be a strategic move to secure funding ahead of the 2026 local government elections.

ActionSA, which became prominent and was a kingmaker in the 2021 local government elections, saw a disappointing performance in the national elections in May.

The new ANC-Action SA alliance aims to oust the DA-led administration in Tshwane next, with a target set on Mayor Cilliers Brink

This follows the installation of the ANC’s Dada Morero in Johannesburg last week.

Meanwhile, the DA slammed the new relationship, labelling it as “disastrous” for the metro’s future.

Despite this, Action SA says it remains committed to working with the ANC to achieve its goals for stability and improved delivery.