JOHANNESBURG, Gauteng — The Congress of the People (COPE) has officially announced its intention to contest the upcoming November 2026 local government elections, marking a significant step in the party’s ongoing rebuilding phase. This will be the organization’s first electoral contest since the passing of its founding president, Mosiuoa Lekota, in March.
Founded 18 years ago by four former African National Congress (ANC) members, COPE initially surged onto the South African political scene in 2008, securing just under 8% of the vote in the 2009 national elections. However, the party has experienced a steady decline in support over subsequent election cycles, culminating in the loss of its parliamentary representation during the 2024 elections.
According to Pakes Dikgetsi, COPE’s acting national chairperson, the party’s recovery is a deliberate and unfolding process. Despite the historical downturn, Dikgetsi confirmed that COPE has successfully identified candidates across eight provinces, deliberately excluding KwaZulu-Natal. He cited logistical challenges and the current state of the party’s grassroots structures in the province as the primary reasons for this omission.
The party plans to field candidates in 28 municipalities nationwide. While acknowledging that outright victories in all these areas may not be immediately feasible, Dikgetsi expressed confidence that COPE will retain the seats it won during the 2021 local government elections and ultimately increase its overall representation.
“The structures are functioning, though not yet at the optimum level we desire,” Dikgetsi stated. He emphasized that the individuals joining the party are genuine, deeply committed, and prepared to serve the country’s interests above all else.
Looking ahead, COPE positioned political coalitions as the future of South African governance. The party stated it remains open to partnering with any political entities that prioritize the needs of the people. COPE views the 2026 local elections as a crucial component of its broader revitalization strategy, with a full elective conference expected to take place next year to further solidify its leadership and direction.
