Afrika Mayibuye President Floyd Shivambu has slammed President Cyril Ramaphosa’s claim that Democratic Alliance (DA)-run municipalities are the best in the country.
Speaking on The Sizwe Mpofu-Walsh Xperience (SMWX), Shivambu discussed South Africa’s current political climate.
He also commented on Ramaphosa’s recent unofficial endorsement of the DA, saying that the DA governs the most affluent municipalities, yet these same areas include some of the most neglected townships.
TOWNSHIPS IN DA MUNICIPALITIES NEGLECTED
Shivambu noted that cities like Cape Town have higher revenue streams due to being home to major retailers and financial institutions, with rates and tariffs that generate substantial income for municipalities. However, he said that despite this financial advantage, townships in both Stellenbosch and the City of Cape Town continue to suffer from poverty and crumbling infrastructure.
“If you were to go through an informal settlement called Kayamandi in Stellenbosch, it’s unimaginable, and it’s worse than Dipsloot at the heart of the wealth of South Africa in terms of those who control it. In Stellenbosch and same with conditions in Cape Metro, if you go to Mfuleni, a township in Cape Metro, Nyanga, Langa, Guguletu, Khayelitsha, Philippi – All these areas, there is nothing that reflects responsibility for municipalities,” said Shivambu.
DA MUNICIPALITIES LAUDED BY RAMAPHOSA
Shivambu’s comments come after Ramaphosa, speaking in his capacity as African National Congress (ANC) president, told party members that they should emulate the DA. He said Cape Town and Stellenbosch are among the best-run municipalities. He added that ANC-run municipalities tend to “move backwards,” urging the party to “move up the ladder.”
The DA used Ramaphosa’s remarks to strengthen its governance narrative and bolster its campaign messaging ahead of the 2026 local government elections.
