The African National Congress (ANC) has dismissed rumors suggesting that South African President Cyril Ramaphosa might resign in the wake of the party’s disappointing performance in the 2026 local government elections. ANC spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu categorically denied reports that Ramaphosa had offered to step down, labeling such claims as false.
Despite the ANC’s electoral support dwindling to approximately 30.75% in the recent elections, Bhengu stated that neither the president nor the party’s leadership is under pressure to resign. This decline follows a significant setback in the 2024 general elections, where the ANC failed to maintain its parliamentary majority, securing only around 40% of the vote.
Bhengu emphasized the need for a collective assessment of the election results, which will be discussed at the upcoming ANC National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting. She commended Ramaphosa for his campaign efforts, noting his extensive nationwide visits and leadership throughout the election period.
While Bhengu acknowledged that discussions on potential leadership changes or collective resignations might arise during the assessment, she clarified that the primary focus of the NEC meeting would be to provide a mandate for the party’s negotiators. This indicates that any immediate changes in leadership are not currently on the agenda.