SACP emerges as surprise performer in 2026 LGE after ANC split

The South African Communist Party (SACP) is emerging as one of the surprise performers in the 2026 local government elections after contesting separately from its long-time alliance partner, the African National Congress (ANC).

Early results show the SACP polling particularly strongly in the Eastern Cape, where it has secured more than 6% of the vote, and is third behind the ANC and the Democratic Alliance (DA), while outperforming both the United Democratic Movement (UDM) and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF).

The party is also recording encouraging support in Limpopo and the North West.

LGE 2026 | SACP Central Committee member Dr Alex Mashilo says voter turnout in South Africa has declined significantly over the years, adding that the party’s decision to participate in the local government election is part of a rescue mission. https://t.co/vz6Ysl2DyF

— SABC News (@SABCNews) November 4, 2026

SACP First Deputy General Secretary Madala Masuku believes that, despite a lack of money and resources for campaigning, the party made its mark in these elections.

“We want to thank the people of South Africa. The communities actually responded very well, and they actually liked the idea, and in some communities they led the selling of the idea and also campaigning.” He says.

Related Video | LGE 2026 | SACP on results trickling in

Masuku recalled a visit to KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), where he met elderly people for whom he had to buy walking canes as they led the charge in spreading the SACP’s message.

He believes the SACP has strong momentum but lacks the funding and resources to achieve its political goals.

“We feel that if we had enough time and enough money-and we did not have enough money to reach everywhere, but we actually did made a mark.”

Meanwhile, the SACP in the Eastern Cape says it is satisfied with its overall performance in the 2026 local government elections. With 56% of votes captured in the province, the SACP has the third-highest number of votes, and is among the top five parties in the Buffalo City Metro.

Provincial Spokesperson, Xolani Malamlela told SABC News the winning of some wards across the province was unexpected.

“Our aim was to say we want to be the voice of the working class in all municipalities, and now it has come with bonuses; we have even won some wards across the Eastern Cape, and even at national level. We are humbled by the support given by communities.”