A small Northern Cape community surrounded by approximately 40 mines has delivered a major political surprise after voting the African National Congress (ANC) out of power in the Tsantsabane Local Municipality.
The election victory of Rise Tsantsabane Communities (RTC) reflects growing frustration among residents who believe that the area’s mining wealth has not translated into enough employment opportunities, better infrastructure or reliable municipal services.
The community, which includes Postmasburg, has struggled with high unemployment despite being surrounded by mining operations. Residents have also raised concerns about deteriorating roads, inadequate infrastructure and poor service delivery.
RTC secured approximately 43.8% of the vote, winning seven of the municipality’s 13 council seats. The ANC was reduced to three seats, while the Democratic Alliance (DA), Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) and Patriotic Alliance (PA) each secured one seat. The result gives RTC an outright council majority. enca.com
New community movement defeats established political party
The result represents a significant achievement for RTC, which was registered in February 2026, just months before the local government elections. Its victory demonstrates how community-based political movements can gain support when residents feel that established political parties are failing to address local challenges.
RTC founder and president Michael Mabilo said the party was excited about the opportunity to improve people’s lives. He argued that the ANC had become complacent, taking residents’ continued support for granted while failing to respond adequately to their concerns.
Mabilo said the movement was created to represent communities that felt neglected and wanted a different approach to municipal leadership. The victory also gives RTC the opportunity to turn its campaign promises into practical programmes aimed at improving living conditions across Tsantsabane. enca.com
40 mines but residents still struggle to find jobs
One of the biggest issues facing Tsantsabane is the contrast between its mining activity and the unemployment experienced by local residents. The municipality is surrounded by approximately 40 mines, yet many people continue to struggle to secure stable employment.
RTC believes mining companies should play a greater role in supporting the communities in which they operate. Mabilo has called on mining companies to adopt one of the municipality’s seven wards and contribute towards local development.
Under the proposal, individual mining companies would work with communities to identify development priorities, support infrastructure projects and create opportunities for local residents. The party also wants mining companies to honour their Social and Labour Plan (SLP) commitments.
These plans are intended to ensure that mining operations contribute to the development of surrounding communities through initiatives that include skills development, employment opportunities and infrastructure investment.
Mabilo believes previous municipal leaders did not do enough to follow up on these commitments and ensure that residents benefited. He said RTC had already engaged several mining companies, with some making commitments towards supporting local development. enca.com
Poor roads and infrastructure remain major concerns
Employment is not the only challenge facing residents. Poor roads, potholes and inadequate infrastructure have contributed to growing dissatisfaction with municipal administration. According to Mabilo, some residents have even resorted to building their own bridges and roads because they feel that their needs have not received sufficient attention.
RTC has promised to prioritise better municipal services and strengthen relationships with businesses operating in the area. The new administration will also need to address water, sanitation and road maintenance challenges while ensuring that municipal resources are managed responsibly.
New leadership faces a major test
Although RTC’s electoral victory represents a breakthrough, governing the municipality will present a different challenge from campaigning for votes. Residents will expect visible improvements, particularly in employment opportunities, infrastructure maintenance and access to basic services.
The party will also need to establish effective working relationships with mining companies and government departments to ensure that development commitments translate into measurable results. For the ANC, losing Tsantsabane represents another setback in a province where voters are increasingly willing to support smaller political movements.
Tsantsabane votes for change
13 November 2026 – Mining community’s election result attracts national attention
The victory of Rise Tsantsabane Communities has become a major talking point following the 2026 local government elections. Community-based movements are increasingly gaining representation in municipalities where residents are frustrated with service delivery.
12 November 2026 – RTC outlines plans for mining companies
RTC president Michael Mabilo called on mining companies to adopt municipal wards and invest in local development. The movement wants stronger accountability for Social and Labour Plan commitments.
5 November 2026 – RTC secures council majority
Final election reporting confirmed that RTC won seven of Tsantsabane’s 13 council seats, while the ANC secured three. The DA, EFF and PA each won one seat.
February 2026 – Community movement registered
RTC was registered as a political organisation, entering the election campaign with promises to address unemployment, poor municipal services and the concerns of mining communities.
For RTC, however, the real test starts now. The people of Tsantsabane have voted for change. Whether that change improves their daily lives will depend on the new administration’s ability to deliver on its promises.