uMzumbe, situated on KwaZulu-Natal’s southern coast between Scottburgh and Port Shepstone, is experiencing notable political shifts. Historically dominated by the ANC, the municipality saw a significant change in the 2021 local elections, with the ANC securing 21 out of 39 council seats. The IFP became the official opposition, and smaller parties like the EFF, ATM, and APEMO also gained representation.
The upcoming 2024 provincial elections indicate a dramatic decline in ANC support, with uMkhonto Wesizwe (MK) emerging as a formidable opponent, garnering 40% of votes as opposed to ANC’s 28%. The IFP also showed strength with 27%, while the EFF struggled with just 2%.
Recent by-elections suggest the ANC’s diminishing influence, particularly in Wards 1, 2, and 3, where MK and IFP made significant inroads. The defections of six ANC councilors to MK, following their suspension for colluding with the IFP, further underscore this shift. The political landscape in uMzumbe is evidently evolving, with MK and the IFP gaining ground at the ANC’s expense.
Original Source: Daily Maverick
Date: 2024-06-18 10:57:16
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