Ramaphosa Dismisses Resignation Claims After ANC Suffers Major Election Setback

ANC Faces Major Setback at the Polls

Recent election results highlighted a challenging moment for the ANC, with the party’s share of the national vote dropping from 45.59% in the previous 2021 elections to 30.76% in 2026. This dramatic decrease saw the ANC secure 3,246 council seats. Political observers have characterised this outcome as one of the party’s most trying performances in local government history.

Opposition Gains Ground

The Democratic Alliance (DA) strengthened its position, obtaining 24.64% of the vote and 1,695 council seats. The MK party emerged as another significant player, gaining 9.76% and 785 seats. Other notable results included the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) with 6.22% and 588 seats, and ActionSA with 5.67% and 313 seats. These results reflect a further fragmentation of the South African political landscape and signal a shift in voter sentiment away from traditional power bases.

Ramaphosa Addresses Resignation Rumours

After delivering a public address in the aftermath of the election, President Ramaphosa was questioned by journalists regarding the widely circulated resignation rumours. He responded emphatically:

“I don’t know where these rumours come from. I mean, who came up with a rumour like that? It’s preposterous.”

While acknowledging the party’s poor performance, Ramaphosa reiterated his commitment to lead and underscored the importance of respecting the democratic outcomes determined by voters.

Accepting Voters’ Verdict with Humility

Reflecting on the election results, Ramaphosa commented that the ANC had accepted the verdict delivered by the electorate. He called for humility and reflection within the party, stating:

“This is their verdict, and we accept it. We accept it with humility.”

His remarks indicate an acknowledgement of voters’ dissatisfaction and reinforce the central role citizens play in shaping the country’s political direction.

Democratic Process Takes Centre Stage

While internal debates about the future of ANC leadership intensify, Ramaphosa chose to shift the focus towards the broader democratic system. Congratulating South Africans for their civic participation, he described the 2026 elections as a strong affirmation of the country’s democratic commitment.

“We celebrate the enduring strength of our democracy and the sovereign right of the people of South Africa to choose their representatives.”

As South Africa marks 30 years since the adoption of its Constitution, Ramaphosa reaffirmed the principle that authority to govern rests with citizens, rather than being permanently held by any political party or individual.

Political Authority Entrusted by the People

Emphasising the foundations of South Africa’s democracy, the president stated:

“The authority to govern comes from the people. It is not inherited. It is not owned by any political party. It is not the permanent possession of those who hold public office. It is entrusted by the people to those whom they elect, and it must always be exercised in the interests of those who choose them.”

This statement places the focus on public accountability and the principle that political leadership is contingent upon the electorate’s confidence.

Looking Ahead for the ANC and South Africa

The latest local government election results present a pivotal moment for the ANC and South African politics more broadly. While the ANC confronts questions about its future direction and leadership, the outcome also illustrates the resilience and dynamism of the country’s democratic institutions. The participation of numerous parties and shifts in voter preference reflect South Africa’s evolving political landscape.

How the ANC responds to this electoral setbackboth in terms of policy and internal leadershipwill shape both the party’s fortunes and the country’s governance in the years ahead. Meanwhile, President Ramaphosa’s rejection of resignation rumours reaffirms his determination to remain at the helm, at a time when leadership stability and adherence to democratic principles are under the spotlight.