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ActionSA’s Ekurhuleni mayoral candidate, Xolani Khumalo, delivered a high-energy speech in Tembisa as he presented his party’s proposed action plan ahead of the 2026 local government elections. He addressed residents on 6 October 2025 and focused on crime, corruption, service delivery failures and the need for stronger community safety measures.
The event drew supporters, youth groups and local residents who came to hear his message. Khumalo, known for his television work confronting drug networks, said his activism shaped his political ambitions and his approach to leadership.
Community Safety and Anti-Corruption at the Centre
During his address, Khumalo said crime remained one of the biggest concerns in Ekurhuleni. He argued that criminal syndicates continue to target vulnerable communities. As a result, he called for stronger, more coordinated law enforcement responses.
Khumalo explained that his experience dealing with drug dens and illegal firearms informed his proposals for specialised metro police units. These units would focus on dismantling gangs, shutting down drug houses and improving police accountability.
He also placed corruption at the centre of his message. In addition, he promised lifestyle audits for officials, the review of municipal contracts and the establishment of an independent anti-corruption unit if his party gained governance. Supporters responded positively to these proposals, saying corruption has weakened service delivery in many areas of the metro.
Basic Services and Local Development
Khumalo said Ekurhuleni needed urgent action to fix failing infrastructure and restore essential municipal services. Residents have raised repeated complaints about water outages, power cuts, potholes and ageing roads. He argued that mismanagement and corruption diverted funds away from maintenance.
His plan includes improving electricity reliability, repairing water systems and investing in safer streets. Furthermore, he said every community deserved clean water, working lights and functional municipal services.
Khumalo also spoke about supporting local economic growth. He proposed township enterprise hubs, reduced red tape for small businesses and more opportunities for young people. Meanwhile, residents voiced concerns about high unemployment. Khumalo said the city must work to attract investment while supporting local entrepreneurs.
Housing, Urban Upgrades and Social Services
Housing shortages and growing informal settlements were also emphasized. Khumalo said families deserved safer living conditions and promised upgrades focused on lighting, sanitation and clean water. He added that long delays in issuing title deeds must be resolved to give residents security.
He then turned to healthcare. Khumalo called for clinics to operate longer hours and to be fully stocked with medication. He said no resident should struggle to access treatment, especially those far from major hospitals.
Infrastructure upgrades formed another key part of his plan. He spoke about fixing major roads, easing congestion and restoring reliable public transport so residents can travel to work with dignity.
Residents Respond to the Speech
Residents who attended the gathering said they wanted clear plans from all political leaders ahead of the elections. Some praised Khumalo’s focus on crime and corruption. However, others said they hoped for more details on timelines, budgets and implementation.
Political analysts said the speech forms part of ActionSA’s broader effort to position itself as a challenger in metros like Ekurhuleni, where service delivery concerns continue to dominate public debate.
Competition Rises as Elections Approach
The event signals the start of intensified campaigning as parties outline their plans before residents return to the polls. Khumalo closed his address by urging residents to vote and participate in shaping the future of the metro.
The 2026 municipal elections are expected to be highly competitive, with several parties promising reforms in safety, service delivery and local economic growth.
