Who are the Ward 103 councillor candidates for 2026?

With the 2026 local government elections approaching, Ward 103 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 ward includes Benmore, including Benmore Gardens; Bryanston East; Dalecross; Duxberry; Hurlingham, including Hurlhampark; Moodie Hill; Morningside, including Morningside, Parkmore and Morningside extensions; Northern Acres; Parkmore; Riverclub; Sandown, including Sandown Ext 24; parts of Sandton CBD and Strathavon; and Sunset Acres.

Elections Content: DA Ward 103 councillor candidate Lynda Shackleford

In one sentence, who are you?
I am Lynda Shackleford, a home-grown Joburg resident of over 50 years, returning DA Ward 103 councillor, community champion, event specialist and proud cappuccino addict who refuses to take ‘no’ for an answer when it comes to getting things done.

What are the biggest issues facing your ward currently?
Ageing water and electricity infrastructure, ongoing water and power outages, deteriorating roads, non-functioning streetlights and development outpacing infrastructure. Illegal occupation, dumping, crime and ineffective day-to-day by-law enforcement also threaten our communities and open spaces.

What practical solutions would you prioritise should you be named councillor of your ward?
I will push for the entities to prioritise long-overdue upgrades to JHB Water infrastructure, reliable electricity and proper maintenance. We need sustainable, cost-effective street lighting and must ensure new developments have adequate supporting infrastructure, so existing residents are not negatively affected. Hold City of Johannesburg entities accountable, champion effective by-laws to address ongoing resident concerns and push to decentralise JMPD by-law enforcement so officers are visible and active in our communities. Protecting our parks, rivers and open spaces remains a priority.

What is one misconception about you or your party that you would clarify?
Many believe the DA has governed Johannesburg throughout this term. The DA was in government for a very limited time at the beginning of this term – before an ANC-EFF-PA-led coalition, supported by smaller parties, took over; since then, the DA, with only 70 councillors, has spent most of the term in opposition.

Should your party’s candidate be named mayor, what should they address first?
When Helen Zille is sworn in as mayor, her first priority must be to get the city’s finances in order, stop waste and corruption and ensure that residents’ money is spent where it matters.

Other candidates are encouraged to email the editors, Ashtyn Mackenzie, at ashtynm@caxton.co.za or Aimee McGill at aimeed@caxton.co.za