Alfred Nzo District has a new mayoral team following a council vote on 3 February 2026, just months before South Africa heads to the polls for the next local government elections.
What is happening?
Cllr Tsileng Sobuthongo has been elected as the new Executive Mayor of Alfred Nzo District Municipality. The announcement followed the 11th Special Council meeting held on 3 February 2026.
She takes over the district leadership with a track record in local government, having served as Mayor of Ntabankulu Local Municipality. Her appointment is joined by the return of Cllr Nomasomi Mshuqwana as Deputy Executive Mayor, ensuring continuity in the district’s executive leadership.
Why it matters to you
In her acceptance speech, Executive Mayor Sobuthongo pledged to prioritise quality, drinkable water and reliable service delivery for all residents. These have been longstanding concerns in parts of the district, where access to clean water and basic infrastructure remains uneven.
The appointment of two women to lead both the executive and deputy roles was welcomed by many community members, who praised it as a sign of progressive leadership.
Community response: hope, pride, and some caution
Public response on Facebook reflected a mix of optimism, support for women leadership, and cautious expectations:
- “The leadership we trust to take Alfred Nzo forward… we are hoping for the best,” wrote one resident, referencing the district’s role as part of OR Tambo’s legacy.
- Others celebrated the historic female leadership team:
“Siyabulela and congratulations to women leadership executive and her deputy, all females, siyabonga.” - Some commenters raised concerns about delivery:
“Uxanduva nje loku kuqala kuphuma kwamanzi ezitapini” — “The main task is to ensure water comes out of the taps.” - Not all voices were supportive, with calls for political change also appearing in the thread:
“People of Alfred Nzo must make sure that they vote the ANC out in that municipality.”
The range of views highlights both the hope placed in the new leadership and the pressure to deliver quickly on basic services.
Who is in charge now
| Position | Name | Previous Role |
|---|---|---|
| Executive Mayor | Cllr Tsileng Sobuthongo | Mayor of Ntabankulu Local Municipality |
| Deputy Executive Mayor | Cllr Nomasomi Mshuqwana | Former Deputy Mayor, Alfred Nzo District |
What happens next: leadership under election pressure
This leadership transition comes just months before the 2026 Local Government Elections, scheduled by the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC).
All municipalities, including Alfred Nzo, are expected to contest local political control during the upcoming vote. New leaders, especially in ANC-led councils, face growing calls for improved delivery and accountability.
