With the 2026 local government elections approaching, Ward 115 residents can get to know the candidates vying to represent their community. Meet the candidates, learn more about their priorities and find out what they hope to achieve if elected as ward councillor.

All candidates were invited to submit responses to questions. The responses published below are included here. This article will be updated as further candidates submit their responses.

The areas include Maroeladal, Fourways, Bloubosrand, Witkoppen (part), Jukskei Park, Douglasdale (part), Cedar Lakes, Needwood and Johannesburg North (part).

Mark Van der Merwe, a DA candidate for Ward 115

2026 local government elections: Mark Van der Merwe, a resident of Ward 115 and a resident in the area for the last 67 years.

1. In one sentence, who are you?
Mark Van der Merwe, a resident of Ward 115 and a resident in the area for the last 67 years. Yes, I was born here 67 years ago.

2. What are the biggest issues facing your ward currently?
The biggest issues that the ward is facing are the poor service delivery when it comes to the fundamental services such as water, electricity, roads and waste management. This essentially leads to companies and residents moving to other cities that have good governance and better services. We need to focus on the fundamentals that will stimulate growth and opportunities in the city and provide investment. Along with the fundamentals, we need to ensure safety for all residents.

3. What practical solutions would you prioritise should you be named councillor of your ward?
Ensure constant service delivery of the basics and to hold city staff accountable and true to their roles and responsibilities. Infrastructure needs to be upgraded, so along with residents we need to focus on getting projects allocated to the ward to enhance upgrades of the basic services infrastructure.

4. What is one misconception about you or your party that you would clarify?
That councillors control budgets. The city controls the budget and councillors continually fight for access to that budget.

4.Should your party’s candidate be named mayor, what issue should they address first?
Helen Zille has publicly voiced her priorities for the city: 1) Reliable water and electricity for all residents, 2) Roads that work, 3) Attract 200 000 new jobs to Johannesburg, 4) Law and order. Kill corruption and make public spaces safer, and 5) A professional, modern government. A city we can be proud of.

Other candidates are encouraged to email the editor, Aimee McGill, at Aimeed@caxton.co.za.