In a result that analysts are calling a potential watershed moment, the Patriotic Alliance (PA) has claimed a landmark victory in a by-election for Ward 29 in Soweto, breaking a decades-long political stronghold.
The ward, which comprises the areas of Noordgesig and parts of Diepkloof and Orlando, had been controlled by the African National Congress (ANC) since the dawn of democracy in South Africa. The seat became vacant following the passing of longtime ANC councillor Brenda Dammie after a long illness.
The PA is hailing the win as a “historic breakthrough.” A party spokesperson, visibly elated, declared, “This is the biggest win for the party. I mean since the dawn of democracy, this is the first time any party could have ever won a ward from the ANC in Soweto, and for us this is a massive, massive win.”
The new PA councillor, who has not yet been sworn in, acknowledged the immediate challenges ahead, stating, “I haven’t seen the budget that’s there. I haven’t seen what the plans are or what was there from the previous councillor that the budget was given.”
The victory comes amid pressing community concerns, particularly from the youth. In Naser, where youth unemployment remains alarmingly high, young residents are appealing for investment. One young person highlighted the lack of recreational opportunities, saying, “We need facilities for us you know so that we can have opportunities going further in life and sports.” Another resident expressed a sentiment of change, stating, “I’m grateful that he became our councillor after so many years as we grew up… with the ANC for all these years.”
Political analyst Dr. John Molepo believes this result signals a significant shift in the township’s political landscape. “I think the victory for PA in Soweto signifies a new moment in the politics of local government, particularly around Soweto where the dominance has been the one from the ANC,” Dr. Molepo said.
He further suggested that this by-election could be an early indicator of broader political trends ahead of the 2026 local government elections. “So, I think come 2026, we might likely to see a decline of the ANC, and this is precisely on the issues of people have been complaining about the services in Johannesburg,” Dr. Molepo added.
The report also noted that Noordgesig is predominantly a coloured community, a demographic where the Patriotic Alliance’s message may find particular resonance. The outcome in Ward 29 now places the burgeoning party in a pivotal position to demonstrate its governance capabilities to a community yearning for change and improved services.