Solly Mkhize: ‘No secrets’ in the Patriotic Alliance, says deputy provincial secretary

Patriotic Alliance (PA) deputy provincial secretary Solly Mkhize told The Citizen’s elections podcast The Movement that there are “no secrets” in the party and outlined the PA’s growth, priorities and approach to coalition politics ahead of the local government elections.

Who spoke and where

The discussion took place on The Citizen’s podcast The Movement, hosted by Itumeleng Mafisa. The episode was published on 16 September 2026 at 10:15 am.

Party growth since 2013

Mkhize traced the PA’s progress from its formation in 2013. He said the party received about 13 000 votes in the 2014 national elections and later contested selected metropolitan municipalities in 2016, where it initially secured one seat in each contested metro. According to Mkhize, the party’s representation increased significantly after the 2021 local government elections, and it now holds 11 seats in Johannesburg. He attributed some of the growth to subsequent by-elections.

Policy priorities: immigration and service delivery

Mkhize said the PA will continue focusing on undocumented immigration and raised concerns about businesses employing undocumented foreign nationals instead of South Africans. He alleged that some foreign workers face poor living conditions and exploitation.

He also discussed what he described as hijacked buildings and properties in Johannesburg, saying the party has identified properties allegedly being occupied by undocumented migrants. The Citizen did not independently verify those claims.

Coalitions, representation and unity

Mkhize rejected the claim that the PA primarily represents coloured communities, pointing instead to the party’s representation across different provinces and demographics. He said the PA contests wards across Johannesburg rather than concentrating on specific communities.

On coalition politics, Mkhize said the PA would work with parties that could improve conditions for residents, but that coalition decisions would depend on negotiations and the numbers available. He rejected accusations that the PA enters coalitions solely to obtain positions, arguing that political power allows the party to demonstrate its approach to service delivery and pointing to Johannesburg as an example.

Service delivery model and municipal work

Mkhize described the party’s involvement in municipal government and infrastructure programmes, highlighting Operation Restore, which he said focuses on using existing municipal resources. He addressed criticism of Johannesburg’s bus rapid transit system, saying problems existed before the PA assumed responsibility within the municipality.

He said the party supports education and merit-based political deployment, adding that councillors should earn their positions by serving their communities. He also said political activism and commitment are important within the PA.

Where to hear the full conversation

The full discussion is available in the latest episode of The Movement.

Podcast credits: producer: Caslian Scott; camera operator: Caslian Scott; video editor: Shaun Holland.