ActionSA Kicks Off 2026 Municipal Elections Campaign in Alexandra Amid Community Frustrations
Natalie Nyathi
Yesterday morning, ActionSA leader Herman Mashaba launched the party’s campaign for the upcoming local government elections in Alexandra, Johannesburg. The event aimed to address longstanding issues in the community, but not all residents welcomed the political initiative.
Mashaba, joined by Tshwane Mayor Dr. Nasiphi Moya and ActionSA’s national chairperson Michael Beaumont, sought to engage with the community by taking a hands-on approach. Armed with a shovel and a pothole patching machine, he aimed to demonstrate his commitment to improving local infrastructure. However, his presence was met with mixed reactions from residents.
Some community members expressed frustration with political parties, stating they felt used during election seasons only to be neglected afterwards. One resident voiced their disillusionment, saying, “There’s nothing politicians can still do to improve our lives. I predict that no party will get an outright majority ever again. Voters are punishing political parties for their mistakes.”
Residents of Alexandra have long bemoaned the lack of basic service delivery, including reliable access to clean water, electricity, waste removal, and proper sanitation. The community struggles with crumbling infrastructure, with many parts suffering from potholes and inadequate sewage systems. Mashaba acknowledged the strong smell caused by sewage and illegal dumping, promising to address these issues through a door-to-door campaign if elected. “Communities like Alexandra continue to be left behind,” he remarked.
The frustrations extend beyond just physical infrastructure. Many residents report feeling abandoned by local authorities, with one stating, “We are tired of being used as voting tools only to be neglected.” Health services are also lacking, and youth unemployment remains a significant concern, further exacerbating the community’s challenges.
Despite the skepticism from some residents, Mashaba believes that ActionSA is well-equipped to tackle the problems in Alexandra. He emphasized the need for action and accountability in local governance, stating, “ActionSA was born to challenge the status quo and lead a new era of ethical, responsive, and people-centered local governments.”
As the campaign unfolds, Mashaba and ActionSA aim to resonate with voters who are tired of broken promises and ineffective leadership. The party’s commitment to fixing local government issues will be put to the test as they seek to secure votes in the 2026 elections.
