The Democratic Alliance (DA) surged to victory, winning ward 26 in Emalahleni Local Municipality from the ANC, in yesterday’s hotly contested by-election.

“This historic victory in Mpumalanga signals continued voter confidence and great momentum as we make inroads in ANC strongholds, ahead of the 2026 Local Government Elections,” said DA Mpumalanga Provincial Leader, Jane Sithole.

She added voters from diverse communities are endorsing the DA’s proven track record of good governance, rejecting corruption and failed policies that have locked people out of opportunities. The DA’s newly elected Ward Councillor, Sonja Liebenberg, will now join the DA team, who are fighting in councils for better delivery and basic services.

“Residents of Ward 26 have been subjected to poor service delivery for far too long a time, with the previous ANC councillor also implicated in an alleged rape scandal,” Sithole added. “We express gratitude and thank each voter who turned out to vote for the DA. We also commend the DA campaign team, staff, activists, and our public representatives who worked day and night during this by-election.”

The DA secured 839 votes, the ANC 809, MK 410, and EFF 325 votes.

Your voice can be heard through your vote. Make sure you visit your voting station in Ga-Nala today
Read more here: https://t.co/nEjauDzVvX#witbanknews #witbank #Kriel #ByElection

— WitbankNews (@WitbankN) October 1, 2025

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