Tuesday, 22 September 2026

Ipsos research found 47% of South Africans feel no political party represents them, while local-government turnout fell from 58% in 2011 to 45.81% in 2021.

Political scientist Tavisoma Posa argued that coalitions, corruption, internal party battles and poor service delivery are deepening voters’ disillusionment and weakening trust in democracy.

Posa backed legislative reforms to curb party proliferation, including membership thresholds for contesting national, provincial and local elections and stricter criteria for independent candidates.

COSATU postponed its Congress after disputes over credentials, quorum and a deputy president’s eligibility; it plans to reconvene from 12 to 15 October after resolving divisions.

COSATU parliamentary coordinator Matthew Parks said the federation must use the delay to reunite, refocus on workers’ issues and avoid a divided Congress, despite significant additional costs.