JOHANNESBURG, Gauteng — Al Jama-ah Parliamentary Leader Imraan Moosa has expressed immense satisfaction with the party’s performance in the 2026 local government elections (LGE 2026), signaling tremendous growth compared to the 2021 municipal polls and setting ambitious goals for the future.
Speaking at the Results Operation Centre, Moosa confirmed that the party has already secured seven seats in the City of Cape Town and is optimistic about securing a similar number of seats in the City of Johannesburg. Touting the emerging “Al Jama-ah effect,” he boldly predicted that the party will be ranked among the top three political parties in the country by 2029.
Reflecting on the party’s previous governance role in Johannesburg, Moosa defended their track record of providing two mayors who were trusted by a complex 10-party coalition. He attributed this cross-party trust to the political differences between the ANC and the EFF at the time. Moosa claimed that during their 18-month tenure, the mayors successfully stabilized the city, generated R1.2 billion in income, secured approximately 150 permanent jobs, and resolved operational issues at three City Power stations. Furthermore, he stated that the party inherited a mere R400 million and handed over R4 billion to the ANC’s Dada Morero upon leaving office.
When pressed on criticisms regarding instability and the tenure of the last mayor, Kabelo Gwamanda—who faced charges that were eventually withdrawn—Moosa dismissed the critiques. He argued that maintaining stability among 10 politically divided parties, including the ruling party and various opposition factions, was a monumental task that they successfully managed in a short period.
Shifting to a broader national critique, Moosa expressed disappointment with current coalition dynamics across local and national councils. He argued that grassroots service delivery is severely compromised because political parties frequently oppose motions that benefit residents, prioritizing political motives over community development.
Looking ahead to potential coalition partnerships, Moosa stated that Al Jama-ah is willing to work with any political party deeply rooted in the liberation struggle, citing the party’s own historical hardships during the apartheid era. However, when asked about recent outreach from the Democratic Alliance (DA), Moosa indicated that the party is turning its attention away from negotiations until the final election results are completely verified and announced.
