South Africa’s Ramaphosa Warns of Election ‘Litmus Test’ for ANC

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has warned that the upcoming municipal elections in 2024 will serve as a "litmus test" for the ruling African National Congress (ANC) party. Ramaphosa acknowledged the party's struggles with municipal-level governance, stating that a failure to address these issues could have significant consequences for the ANC's political standing. The president emphasized the importance of tackling municipal dysfunction, which has been a persistent challenge in South Africa. He emphasized that the ANC must demonstrate its ability to deliver effective local government services and address the concerns of citizens at the community level. Ramaphosa's comments come as the ANC faces mounting pressure to address a range of issues, including economic stagnation, corruption, and service delivery challenges. The upcoming local elections will provide an opportunity for the party to demonstrate its commitment to addressing these concerns and regaining the trust of the electorate.