VANDERBIJLPARK — The African National Congress (ANC) has successfully held onto Ward 35 in the Emfuleni Local Municipality after the by-election held on 23 July. The victory sees former ward councillor Petrus Chakane Mohlamme return to the position.

Results released by the Electoral Commission show the ANC leading with 38% of the vote, albeit significantly reduced from previous tallies. Emerging parties and shifts in voter sentiment painted a more complex political picture. The new uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party claimed a strong 21%, the Democratic Alliance (DA) and Patriotic Alliance (PA) each secured 12%, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) earned 8%, while smaller parties, including DITAU (6%), PAC (2%), and SEFM, Labour, SARKO, AAAIC (under 1% each), rounded out the results.

This by-election followed the passing of former ANC councillor and MMC Mapitso Molepo‑Mashigo earlier this year, a vacancy that sparked intense competition. ANC’s decision to field Mohlamme, a familiar face in the ward, paid off despite growing challenges from opposition forces.

While retaining power, the ANC’s decline in vote share signals rising dissatisfaction among constituents. Analysts believe the result is a cautionary tale for the party ahead of the 2026 local government elections, underscoring a growing appetite for alternatives in Emfuleni.

Mohlamme’s return marks continuity for ANC leadership in Ward 35. The focus now turns to whether he can rebuild trust and deliver on service‑delivery improvements in a ward that has made it clear: business as usual is no longer enough.