With the 2026 local government elections approaching, Ward 99 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 Linden, Robindale, Blairgowrie (part), Cresta, Windsor Glen, Randpark, Robin Hills, Windsor East, Darrenwood, Aldara Park, Robin Acres and Jacanlee.

Hendrik Bodenstein, a DA candidate for Ward 99

In one sentence, who are you?
I’m a proudly ordinary Joburger with an extraordinary belief in our people, the power of community and the fighting spirit of this city.

What are the biggest issues facing your ward currently?
Ward 99 residents are tired of planning their lives around outages, water cuts and reference numbers that go nowhere. Ageing infrastructure, potholes, failing storm water systems, refuse collection, crime, illegal dumping and neglected public spaces are chipping away at our quality of life. We pay world-class rates and deserve services that work.

What practical solutions would you prioritise should you be named councillor of your ward?
My approach is simple and remains the same: show up, speak up and follow up. I will continue to push for preventative maintenance, faster repairs, proper reinstatement after excavations and better co-ordination between municipal entities. I believe in partnerships with residents, businesses and community organisations.

What is one misconception about you or your party that you would clarify?
The tired claim that the DA only cares about certain communities is false. Potholes do not check your race, broken pipes do not ask how you vote, and opportunity should never depend on who you know. The DA stands for freedom, fairness, opportunity and diversity, backed by clean government that treats public money as a public trust.

Should your party’s candidate be named mayor, what issue should they address first?
Helen Zille must first stabilise Johannesburg’s finances and restore the basics: reliable water, electricity, roads and refuse collection. She must rebuild a professional administration, appoint capable people, root out corruption and make accountability mean consequences – not another press conference. Johannesburg does not need more political theatre; we have enough potholes without digging new ones. It needs honest leadership, sound financial management and a government that gets out of the way of growth. The goal is straightforward: a city that works, so its people can work, build and thrive.

Other candidates are encouraged to email the editor, Aimee McGill, at [email protected].