Issue No. 2
24 Aug 2026 — 30 Aug 2026 · 9 reports
President Cyril Ramaphosa launched the 2026 local government manifesto at Riverside Park, Diepsloot, conceding that “too many municipalities are failing” and committing councillors to published priorities, signed performance agreements and removal for non-delivery.
Our first edition reported that Reverend Frank Chikane had pulled out of the Johannesburg mayoral contest. The Secretary-General has since described that report as untrue, and Chikane was named among the shortlisted candidates at Sandton on Saturday.
Provincial Communications Sub-committee
At Sandton the movement named shortlisted candidates for eight metros and 44 district municipalities rather than final candidates. Johannesburg's shortlist is Dada Morero, Loyiso Masuku and Frank Chikane.
Bulletin Newsdesk
The provincial government warned on Monday that reservoir and tower storage levels are declining even with systems pumping at or near full capacity. Analysts say the cause is ageing infrastructure, not a sudden spike in demand.
Bulletin Newsdesk
Speaking at the launch, the electricity minister said tariffs have risen 907% in twenty years and that municipal electricity revenue should be ring-fenced for maintenance rather than absorbed into general accounts.
Bulletin Newsdesk
Provincial officials blocked Mayor Nkosindiphile Xhakaza's removal of finance MMC and regional secretary Jongizizwe Dlabathi, instructing the region to deliberate and report back before acting.
Regional Correspondent, Ekurhuleni
With the manifesto launched and voting day set, the campaign moves to the doorstep. Branches are asked to run manifesto report-backs, sustain door-to-door work and prepare for registration weekend.
Campaigns Desk
The province commits to publishing ward-level service delivery baselines in Gauteng municipalities it leads, and to reporting against them publicly.
ANC Gauteng Communications
The City of Johannesburg has settled its outstanding R5.25 billion Eskom debt, removing the immediate threat of electricity supply restrictions and strengthening the City’s commitment to financial discipline, reliable service delivery and a sustainable electricity supply for residents and businesses.
ANC Gauteng Communications
