Sasabona Manganye: The ANC has proved that it is the only party that can rescue Johannesburg

Sasabona Manganye, the ANC’s regional secretary for Gauteng, has asserted that the African National Congress is the sole political force capable of reviving Johannesburg, stating that the party has already proven its ability to improve the city’s living standards. In an exclusive interview with the Mail & Guardian, Manganye emphasized the importance of securing an overwhelming ANC victory in the upcoming November local government elections, arguing that only a clear majority would allow the party to govern independently and fully address the city’s pressing issues. Johannesburg, once under ANC control following the end of apartheid in 1994, was handed over to a coalition led by the Democratic Alliance in 2016. Then-mayor Parks Tau was replaced by DA leader Herman Mashaba, who later stepped down due to internal pressures within his own party. Since then, at least nine mayors have led the city, with four from the ANC, two from the DA, and two from Al Jama-ah. Despite this turnover, Manganye claimed the ANC had managed to leave the city in a financially stable position during its tenure. Manganye pointed to the financial management under former mayor Parks Tau, noting that the ANC had ensured the city ended with a surplus rather than deficits. He argued that criticism of the ANC’s governance often fails to account for the party’s fiscal responsibility, which enables effective problem-solving. “When you manage finances well, it enables you to address the challenges you are faced with,” he said. “But when you mess up the finances of the city, you won’t have the capacity to resolve those challenges.” The ANC’s commitment to financial sustainability, according to Manganye, began with the former regional chair, who is now the mayor, and continues under the current regional chair, who serves as the Finance Municipal Mayor’s Committee member. This, he suggested, reflects the party’s seriousness about ensuring Johannesburg’s long-term economic stability. Manganye also highlighted the ANC’s impact on improving townships, particularly Soweto, which he described as having the atmosphere of Sandton, South Africa’s affluent business district, due to the ANC’s efforts. He noted that the improvements in Soweto demonstrate the party’s ability to enhance the quality of life for residents. “We want the people to vote for the ANC because, as you know, the ANC has been taking care of the needs of our people even beyond local government,” he said. He cited examples of how ANC policies have directly benefited citizens, such as enabling mothers of unemployed children to provide food for their families and allowing children to attend school without cost. Some students even receive free transportation and meals, thanks to ANC initiatives. Manganye added that these policies have created opportunities for education, with some students pursuing higher degrees despite their families’ lack of income. He credited the ANC for establishing the National Student Financial Aid Scheme, which supports students nationwide. The ANC has not yet officially announced its mayoral candidate for Johannesburg. However, the party’s national executive has reportedly interviewed at least three individuals, including current mayor Dada Morero, regional chair Loyiso Masuku, and Frank Chikane. Manganye stated that the candidate chosen by the national executive will have the backing of the regional leadership.