Dlamini-Zuma Says Jacob Zuma Could Help Save ANC as Party Support Drops to 30%

Former South African cabinet minister Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma has spoken about the challenges facing the African National Congress (ANC) following the party’s disappointing performance in the 2026 local government elections. Her comments have attracted attention amid growing discussions about the party’s future and whether former president Jacob Zuma could play a role in addressing its declining political support.

The ANC has suffered a major setback after receiving approximately 30.81% of the national vote, according to results with 99% of votes captured. This represents a significant drop from the 45.59% the party secured in the 2021 local government elections. The latest figures also mark the party’s weakest performance since South Africa became a democracy in 1994.

Dlamini-Zuma, who remains an influential figure within the ANC, has called on the party’s leadership to accept responsibility for the disappointing results. Speaking to journalists, she said the leadership needed to examine its mistakes, make corrections and reconnect with ordinary South Africans. She also stressed the importance of understanding people’s needs and addressing them with humility, integrity and compassion.

The discussion about Jacob Zuma comes at a time when his uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party has become an important political force, particularly in KwaZulu-Natal. The former president’s departure from the ANC and the establishment of the MK Party have contributed to the changing political landscape. Some political discussions have raised questions about whether reconciliation with former members and leaders could help the ANC rebuild its support.

The ANC now faces the challenge of restoring public confidence after losing considerable support across the country. Issues such as unemployment, corruption, poor service delivery and internal disagreements have featured prominently in discussions about the party’s declining popularity. Although Dlamini-Zuma has called for self-reflection and corrective action, the question of whether Jacob Zuma could help revive the ANC remains a matter of political debate. No official agreement or reconciliation involving the two sides has been announced.

https://x.com/moyaprof/status/2120060153143718077?s=46

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