POLOKWANE – Service delivery is expected to weigh heavily on voters’ minds as the next local government election approaches.

Political parties are already canvassing and preparing their ward councillor candidates, which is the link between communities and municipalities.

With the election set for January 30, 2027 by the Independent Electoral Commission, Polokwane Observer spoke to the three major parties in Polokwane to inform voters about how candidates are selected.

Economic Freedom Fighters

Minimum qualification requirement

The EFF requires a minimum of a National Senior Certificate, according to Limpopo chairperson Lawrence Mapoulo.

“We expect candidates to have the confidence and training to understand council documents, so they can question decisions and make relevant suggestions,” he said.

Strong community knowledge expected

Mapoulo added that beyond qualifications, the party looks for candidates grounded in their communities.

“They should know how many schools, clinics and elderly people are in their area, and where intervention is needed.”

Possible exceptions to qualifications

The EFF, however, may waive formal qualifications in exceptional cases where a candidate demonstrates outstanding ability.

Democratic Alliance

Structured selection process

The DA selection process begins about 18 months before elections, with both new applicants and current councillors required to apply.

Candidates are screened, including criminal and qualification checks.

Shortlisting and interviews

Local selection panels shortlist candidates, who are then interviewed based on the party’s values.

Training and assessment phase

After training, ward work and written assessments, top candidates are recommended to the provincial executive.

Final approval and diversity considerations

Provincial leader Lindy Wilson said the executive may adjust lists to ensure diversity and include candidates with specialised skills.

Final candidates are approved by the national federal executive before being announced.

African National Congress

Qualification and experience requirements

ANC regional spokesperson Adolph Rapetswa said candidates must have at least a matric certificate or demonstrate the experience and expertise needed to contribute meaningfully in council. This requirement may be waived in exceptional cases.

Leadership training modules

All candidates must complete four OR Tambo Leadership School online modules before registration with the IEC, covering party history, organisational building, governance and local economic development.

Vetting and integrity checks

Additional requirements include being an ANC member in good standing, having a proven track record in the democratic movement or government, and no criminal record (excluding political offences before April 1994).

Candidates must not have been recently disciplined by the party, must undergo vetting, declare financial interests, and agree to lifestyle audits if required.

Party discipline and accountability

They must also accept party decisions, including redeployment or recall, and sign deployment contracts. Rapetswa said party lists are adjusted to ensure diversity before councillor candidates are finalised and announced.

Ongoing election coverage

Polokwane Observer will continue to provide coverage of election developments in and around the city in the lead-up to and during the election period.