ANC Limpopo Warns Rivals Ahead of 2026 Elections as Ramathuba Defends Party’s Dominance
“You Cannot Compete With Us”: ANC Limpopo Fires Election Warning as Ramathuba Defends Party’s Grassroots Power Ahead of 2026 Polls
THOHOYANDOU | With South Africa edging closer to the 2026 local government elections, the African National Congress (ANC) in Limpopo has delivered a bold message to its political opponents. The province’s leadership insists the ANC remains an electoral force that challengers cannot match.
Speaking before thousands of supporters at the annual Nelson Mandela Legacy Rally at Makwerela Stadium in Thohoyandou on Saturday, Limpopo ANC Chairperson Dr Phophi Ramathuba declared that rival parties were attempting to take on an organisation built on decades of political experience and deeply rooted community structures.
“You cannot compete with us,” Ramathuba told party members, arguing that the ANC’s resilience has been forged through years of political struggle, governance and grassroots organisation.
The annual rally forms part of the ANC’s programme to honour the legacy of former President Nelson Mandela. The event celebrated Mandela’s enduring contribution to South Africa, promoted unity and encouraged community service during Mandela Month. It also served as a platform to mobilise supporters ahead of the crucial local government elections scheduled for 4 November 2026.
Among those in attendance were Finance Minister and ANC National Executive Committee member Enoch Godongwana, ANC NEC member Andile Lungisa, NEC convenor Njabulo Nzuza, as well as representatives from the VhaVenda Traditional Councils.
Branch Structures Remain the ANC’s Lifeline
Addressing supporters, Ramathuba reminded members that the ANC’s continued survival depends on the strength of its branch structures, describing them as the foundation of the party’s electoral success.
Her remarks come as political parties intensify campaigning in preparation for what is expected to be a fiercely contested local government election.
Despite the ANC’s declining national support in recent years, Limpopo remains one of the party’s strongest provinces.
During the 2021 local government elections, the ANC secured 68.27% of the provincial vote, comfortably ahead of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) on 14.27% and the Democratic Alliance (DA) on 5.45%.
Political Analyst Explains ANC’s Staying Power
Independent political analyst Johannes Mushwana believes the ANC is likely to remain the dominant political force in Limpopo unless opposition parties fundamentally change how they build support.
“The ANC has mastered grassroots politics and understands the importance of strong branch structures in winning elections in Limpopo,” Mushwana said.
He argued that newer political parties, including ActionSA and the Mayibuye Afrika Movement, should not be surprised when they fail to secure representation in some municipal councils.
According to Mushwana, many emerging parties continue to prioritise leadership positions while neglecting the difficult work of establishing active and functional branches at community level.
Governance Challenges Could Change the Political Landscape
While predicting another strong electoral performance for the ANC, Mushwana cautioned that the party’s long-term dominance should not be taken for granted.
He warned that the continued deployment of unskilled municipal officials could gradually erode public confidence in the governing party and weaken its electoral support over time.
As campaigning gathers momentum across South Africa, Limpopo once again appears set to become a critical test of whether the ANC’s organisational strength can withstand growing political competition.
With just months remaining before voters head to the polls on 4 November 2026, the battle for local government has already begun.
