In an opinion piece for TimesLIVE, Lucky Mathebula argues that South Africa's upcoming municipal elections will test whether constitutional government can function effectively at the local level where citizens live. According to Mathebula, the central question is whether coalition politics can produce stable, accountable municipalities capable of delivering services to residents, as hung councils and coalition arrangements have become an increasingly prominent feature of local governance in the country.

A power struggle has erupted in the Madibeng local municipality in South Africa after suspended municipal manager Quiet Kgatla reportedly refused to vacate his office. According to The Citizen, the dispute over his suspension has deepened tensions within the municipality, raising questions about administrative authority and governance in the area as the standoff continues.

South Africa’s Municipal Structures Amendment Bill, known as the Coalition Bill and proposed in 2024, has still not been enacted, leaving concerns about instability in hung councils unresolved ahead of November local elections. According to The Citizen, the delay means the legislation is unlikely to provide stability before voters go to the polls, despite being intended to address governance problems in municipalities without clear majorities.

According to Lucky Mathebula in TimesLIVE, the ongoing foreign national crisis poses a significant challenge for the government of national unity. The situation presents an opportunity for the government to either regain its governing capability or further exacerbate the existing void it has inherited.

The municipal manager of Madibeng Local Municipality, Kgatla, has reportedly refused to step aside despite being suspended. According to TimesLIVE, the allegations against him include refusing to follow directives, making unlawful appointments, abusing his power, and instituting irregular disciplinary proceedings. The standoff between the official and municipal authorities remains unresolved, with Kgatla contesting the suspension rather than complying with the instruction to vacate his position while the matter is addressed.

Former Orlando Pirates striker Thulasizwe Mbuyane has moved into politics after being unveiled as a ward councillor candidate. According to The South African, Mbuyane will contest Ward 67 under the banner of the Economic Liberators Forum South Africa (ELF-SA). The move marks a new chapter for the former footballer, who was a popular figure during his playing days with the Soweto-based club.