ANC targets outright majority in 2026 by filling vacant posts to tackle service delivery

THE ANC in the Frances Baard region is aiming for an outright majority, without forming any coalition municipalities, in the 2026 local government elections.

The newly elected Regional Executive Committee (REC) this week outlined its campaign to ensure that service delivery took place by filling vacant posts. 

ANC Regional Chairperson, Wende Marekwa, admitted that they would have to win lost ground after losing support in the national general elections due to a “fragmented” ANC. 

“We need to put timeframes to challenges faced by the community.” 

Marekwa added that they would ensure that the funds allocated for service delivery would result in “long-lasting solutions” by appointing technicians and directors. 

“Once these vacant positions are filled, the issue of how we use funds will be able to be addressed.”

He committed to building recreational parks and a swimming pool in Platfontein. 

“There are social deficiencies in the area. Grants were allocated to upgrade the Ritchie and Galeshewe stadiums. They must not feel like they are stepchildren of the province.”   

ANC Regional Secretary, Unondumiso Buda, committed to resolve service delivery challenges including electrification, sewer, water, infrastructure and roads in all districts within the next two financial years. 

“Fixing the roads in Pampierstad, as well as the sewer and water problems in Phokwane municipality, will be quick wins. There is a R4 million project to repair street lights in Phokwane, Magareng and Dikgatlong. Sol Plaatje municipalities received R5 million for their street lights.

“Senior managers must be appointed to restore stability in municipalities to improve accountability. Our sleeves are rolled up and we are ready to hit the ground running.” 

She indicated that informal settlements in Dikgatlong and Phokwane would benefit from electrification programs.

“There is a big project to address the water crisis in Magareng municipality.” 

She stated that municipalities were struggling to generate income due to non-payment. 

“About 80 percent of the people depend on grants and don’t want to pay their rates. In Pampierstad, they don’t pay any rates. The national government is coming on board to assist municipalities in funding themselves. We will embark on a consumer education drive - even if people pay a flat rate of R100 per month towards their services.”  

Regional Treasurer Martha Bartlett said a new contractor had been appointed for the Lerato Park electrification project. 

Two contractors left the site apparently due to non-payment despite Millions of Rands that was allocated towards the project while no work was performed.