RAMAPHOSA REPORTEDLY WANTS ANC TO EXPLORE A JOHANNESBURG COALITION WITHOUT THE DA AS PRESSURE GROWS TO RECONSIDER THE PARTY’S RELATIONSHIP WITH ITS NATIONAL GOVERNMENT PARTNER
President Cyril Ramaphosa has reportedly encouraged ANC leaders to consider forming a coalition government in Johannesburg without the Democratic Alliance, adding another twist to the political battle over control of South Africa’s economic hub.
According to reports, Ramaphosa raised the possibility during an ANC National Working Committee meeting. The proposal is expected to feature in discussions at the party’s National Executive Committee meeting.
The political numbers make the negotiations particularly important. The DA received 34.79% of the vote in Johannesburg, followed by the ANC with 20.25% and ActionSA with 16.27%. No party secured an outright majority, meaning coalition negotiations will determine who governs the city.
Gauteng ANC leaders are reportedly interested in exploring cooperation with ActionSA, while some within the party want to reduce reliance on the DA in the province.
However, the ANC’s national spokesperson has disputed claims that Ramaphosa expressed a specific preference on Johannesburg coalition arrangements, saying the NEC will make the final decision.
The situation raises a major political question: could the ANC work with ActionSA and other parties to govern Johannesburg while continuing to share national government with the DA?
With coalition negotiations underway, the battle for Johannesburg is becoming one of the biggest political tests following the 2026 local government elections.
Who should govern Johannesburg: the DA, the ANC, or a coalition led by another party?