rki.news | Source: Anadolu Agency
JOHANNESBURG, Nov. 3 (AA) – Immigration, crime and declining public services have become major issues as South Africans vote in local government elections on Wednesday.
The campaign has been marked by anti-immigrant protests, with some political groups blaming undocumented migrants for unemployment, crime and pressure on public services.
Political analyst Andre Duvenhage told Anadolu that some parties were using immigration concerns to gain political support by creating an enemy.
However, local government performance remains a central concern for voters, particularly access to clean water, electricity, sanitation and waste collection.
An Ipsos survey published Monday found that 55 percent of registered voters distrusted their local governments, while many expressed concern over poor sanitation and infrastructure maintenance.
The elections involve more than 400 political parties and candidates contesting 257 municipalities.
The African National Congress (ANC), which lost its parliamentary majority in 2024, is expected to face further challenges at the local level. Duvenhage said it could remain the largest party nationally while relying on coalition agreements to govern several municipalities.
Analysts also warned that disputes among coalition partners could delay budgets and essential public services.
Immigration and Public Services Dominate South Africa Elections
