With the 2026 local government elections approaching, Ward 88 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 Northcliff, Emmarentia, Montgomery Park, Franklin Roosevelt Park, Berario, Blackheath, Melville (part), Waterval Estate, Risidale, Valeriedene, Montroux and East Town.

Heather Van Wyk, an African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP) candidate for Ward 88

In one sentence, who are you?
I am Heather Van Wyk, a long-standing member of the Ward 88 community, a wife, mother and community-minded person who believes that effective leadership starts with listening, accountability and action.

What are the biggest issues facing your ward currently?
Reliable basic services are a major concern, particularly water and electricity, together with ageing infrastructure, potholes, refuse and illegal dumping, street lighting and community safety. Residents also need better communication and quicker responses when problems are reported.

What practical solutions would you prioritise should you be named councillor of your ward?
My priority would be to establish an accessible, responsive ward office where residents can report problems, receive reference numbers, track progress and get regular feedback. I would work closely with residents’ associations, community organisations and the relevant city departments to identify problem areas, escalate unresolved matters and monitor whether commitments are actually delivered. My approach is simple: no promises we cannot keep, but a commitment to serve, follow up and report back.

What is one misconception about you or your party that you would clarify?
The ACDP is sometimes viewed only through the lens of national politics. At local level, my focus is practical community service: listening to residents, protecting accountability and working for reliable municipal services.

Should your party’s candidate be named mayor, what issue should they address first?
The first priority should be restoring confidence in the city through reliable basic services, responsible financial management, infrastructure maintenance and transparent accountability to residents.

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