South Africa’s ongoing local elections, taking place across nearly 300 municipalities, are testing whether the African National Congress can halt a long decline in public support, amid frustration over corruption, unemployment, crime, and failing municipal services. The party lost its parliamentary majority for the first time in 2024 and has seen its support erode from 70% in 2004 to 40%. Polls suggest it could suffer further losses in Wednesday’s vote. In townships such as Alexandra, residents complain about service failures, including unreliable water and electricity, as well as deteriorating infrastructure. Some younger residents have become disengaged and don’t plan to vote, while others hope voting can bring change. Without the majority needed to govern, analysts expect coalitions to dominate in several major cities.