Shifting Political Landscape in Western Cape
The Western Cape’s political landscape has undergone a significant transformation following the recent by-elections. Notably, the Patriotic Alliance made a substantial breakthrough in Stellenbosch, while the Democratic Alliance successfully captured an ANC-held ward in George. These results, confirmed by South Africa’s Electoral Commission (IEC), highlight the growing electoral volatility ahead of the 2026/27 local government elections.
Breakthroughs and Upsets
In Ward 16, also known as Cloetesville, of the Stellenbosch Municipality, Elsabe Vermeulen delivered a major upset for the Patriotic Alliance by winning a seat previously controlled by the Democratic Alliance. This outcome followed Vermeulen’s notable defection from the DA to the PA, after which she successfully defended her seat under her new party’s banner.
The Patriotic Alliance secured 39.48% of the vote, displacing the Democratic Alliance, which had held the ward since the 2021 municipal elections with 47.65%. Voter turnout reached 46.51%, underscoring the competitive engagement in one of the province’s politically symbolic municipalities.
Gains and Losses in George Municipality
Meanwhile, in Ward 25, also known as Uniondale, of the George Municipality, Jarques Denvar Esau won for the Democratic Alliance, seizing the ward from the African National Congress. This result followed another high-profile defection, this time by former ANC councillor Esau, who retained the ward under DA colors.
The Democratic Alliance improved its vote share to 42.97%, up from 29.80% in 2021. In contrast, the African National Congress slumped to 14% from 30%, while the Patriotic Alliance surged into second place with 34%. The Economic Freedom Fighters held steady at 9%. Voter turnout stood at 58.23%.
