POLOKWANE – Political party defections are gaining momentum ahead of the upcoming local government election, raising concerns about the impact on service delivery and voter decision-making.

This comes after several high-profile figures switched allegiances during a recent rally at Jack Botes Hall, where ActionSA president Herman Mashaba unveiled mayoral candidates for the November 4 polls.

Among those announced was businessman and former ANC member Thapelo Molepo, who is set to contest the Polokwane mayoral position.

Other new members include Dr Mike Ramothwala, former Greater Tzaneen Mayor Maripe Mangena, and former EFF regional leader Simon Mangena.

Many cited dissatisfaction with service delivery as a key reason for leaving their previous parties.

The rally also saw reported former members of the ANC and EFF publicly discarding their party regalia in favour of ActionSA colours, signalling growing political shifts on the ground.

‘Big man-ism’ undermines service delivery, says professor

Tshwane University of Technology associate professor Ricky Mukonza warned that such movements, while not new in South African politics, could have unintended consequences.

“Without clear ideological direction and solid plans from political parties, this trend can be detrimental to addressing bread-and-butter issues affecting ordinary residents,” Mukonza said.

He noted that influential leaders often bring supporters with them when they switch parties, a phenomenon he described as “big man-ism”, where voters follow individuals rather than policies.

“This can fragment votes and shift political outcomes, especially among communities facing challenges such as unemployment, poor infrastructure, and lack of basic services,” he said.

Some residents confirmed their support was tied to individuals rather than parties.

Eric Motsai (66), a former EFF supporter, said he followed Simon Mangena due to his track record in local government.

“He has been a reliable councillor. We will go wherever he goes because of the changes he brought,” Motsai said.

Voters vulnerable to empty promises

Mukonza cautioned that many voters are driven by expectations of improved services and job opportunities, often without fully assessing party policies.

“These voters are in the majority and can determine election outcomes, yet they remain vulnerable to promises that may not materialise,” he added.

An ActionSA official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, acknowledged challenges in engaging with communities, particularly around expectations of immediate job creation.