ANC Admits Voters Have Turned Away as DA Closes in on Victory in Nelson Mandela Bay

The African National Congress (ANC) has acknowledged a disappointing election performance in Nelson Mandela Bay, as the Democratic Alliance (DA) moves closer to securing a commanding position in the Eastern Cape metro following the 2026 Local Government Elections.

In a statement responding to the provisional results, the ANC admitted that voters had delivered a clear message about the party’s performance and its relationship with residents.

The party’s regional leadership acknowledged that internal divisions, particularly during the candidate selection process, had contributed to its declining support. Some disgruntled members and supporters reportedly chose not to vote, while others supported rival political parties.

Meanwhile, the DA continued to strengthen its lead in the metro as vote counting progressed. The party’s growing support puts it in a strong negotiating position, although securing an outright majority remains uncertain.

The ANC’s regional spokesperson, Bamanye Matiwane, acknowledged that the party could no longer take residents’ support for granted.

Source:https://www.news24.com/politics/the-people-have-spoken-says-anc-as-da-edges-towards-501-in-nelson-mandela-bay-20261106-0756