Johannesburg Election Results Put ANC Under Pressure as Coalition Talks Loom

JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA — South Africa's African National Congress (ANC) is facing a significant political setback in Johannesburg following the 2026 local government elections, with final results showing the party trailing the Democratic Alliance (DA) and leaving the city without a single-party majority.

The DA emerged with the largest number of seats, securing 91 of the 270 seats in Johannesburg's city council. The ANC followed with 63 seats, while ActionSA secured 43. The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) won 17 seats, with other smaller parties sharing the remaining positions.

However, the DA's lead does not automatically give it control of the city. A party needs at least 136 seats to secure an outright majority, meaning negotiations with other political parties will be necessary to form a governing coalition.

Why Johannesburg Matters

Johannesburg is one of South Africa's most important cities. It is the country's largest city and a major centre for business, finance, trade and employment. Its economic influence extends beyond South Africa, making its political leadership significant to businesses, investors and residents across the continent.

The city's administration also faces important challenges, including unreliable water supply, electricity problems, deteriorating infrastructure and concerns about service delivery.

Whoever forms the next government will therefore face pressure to address these issues while maintaining an effective city administration.

What Happens Next?

Attention is now turning to coalition negotiations, where political parties must find common ground to secure enough council seats to govern.

Although the DA has the largest number of seats, it cannot govern alone. Even a partnership with ActionSA would produce 134 seats, two short of the required majority. This means additional political support will be needed.

The negotiations could involve smaller parties, each seeking an agreement on policies, leadership positions and the priorities of the new administration.

South African parties have 14 days to negotiate before the formation of the new councils. The outcome of these discussions will determine who leads Johannesburg and how the city will be governed.

For the ANC, the results represent another important test of its political support. For Johannesburg's residents, the immediate concern will be whether the incoming coalition can provide stable leadership and improve essential public services.

As negotiations approach, Johannesburg's political future remains dependent not simply on who won the most seats, but on which parties can reach an agreement to govern.