EDITORIAL: ANC’s humble pie and lessons for Swapo

The African National Congress (ANC) suffered its worst-ever electoral performance in South Africa’s local government elections last week, securing roughly 31% of the vote. This marks a dramatic decline from 46.1% in 2021 and follows its historic loss of a parliamentary majority in the 2024 national elections. ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula has described the latest results as "catastrophic".The outcome leaves the ANC negotiating from a position of weakness, having finished second or third in several major cities. More significantly, it reflects a growing willingness among voters to abandon longstanding political loyalties in favour of parties they believe can deliver tangible results.For decades, the ANC and Swapo enjoyed a privileged political status.Their legitimacy was rooted not merely in their political programmes but in their historic contributions to the liberation of their respective countries.Swapo should take heed. Its continued electoral dominance cannot be taken for granted, nor can it assume that Namibia’s liberation history will indefinitely shield it from public discontent. The party must deliver on its campaign promises, demonstrate accountability and respond decisively to the socio-economic challenges facing ordinary Namibians. Failure to do so could see it haunted by the same electoral ghosts that are now punishing its sister organisation across the border.It should also be a lesson for Swapo and other liberation movements: voters cannot live on liberation songs, historical credentials and revolutionary bravado. The struggle for political relevance must be renewed through tangible improvements in people’s lives.

EDITORIAL: ANC’s humble pie and lessons for Swapo

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Namibian Sun 2026-11-10

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EDITORIAL: ANC’s humble pie and lessons for Swapo

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Namibian Sun 2026-11-10

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