ANC falls to 47% in the Eastern Cape, UDM surges in Buffalo City
With 34% counted, the ANC has 47.39% in the Eastern Cape, down from over 60% in 2024. In Buffalo City it fell from 59.4% in 2021 to about 38%, while the UDM jumped from 1% to almost 19%.
The ANC has dropped below half the vote in the Eastern Cape, one of its strongest provinces. With 34% of the provincial vote counted by 09:30 on Thursday, 5 November, the ANC had 47.39%, the DA 20.18% and the SACP 5.52%, according to IEC figures reported by IOL. The ANC won more than 60% in the province in the 2024 provincial election (IOL).
The biggest shift is in Buffalo City, which covers East London (now KuGompo City), Qonce and Mdantsane.
What are the Eastern Cape numbers?
| Party | Share (34% counted, 09:30) |
|---|---|
| ANC | 47.39% |
| DA | 20.18% |
| SACP | 5.52% |
| EFF | 5.12% |
| UDM | 4.8% |
| ATM | 3.41% |
| PA | 2.75% |
Source: IOL. The SACP is contesting separately from the ANC, its long-time alliance partner.
The ANC had won outright control of one of the province's 33 councils so far and was the biggest party in the two hung councils declared, with 30 still to be calculated (IOL).
What's happening in Buffalo City?
The ANC won Buffalo City outright with 59.4% in 2021. With 30% of votes counted this time, it was on 38.37% (IOL).
| Party | 2021 | 2026 so far (30% counted) |
|---|---|---|
| ANC | 59.4% | 38.37% |
| DA | Not given | 21.83% |
| UDM | 1% | 18.72% |
| SACP | Not given | 5.82% |
| EFF | Not given | 4.86% |
Source: IOL.
The UDM's jump from 1% to almost 19% is the standout. Buffalo City's council has 100 seats, so a party needs 51 to govern alone (IEC figures via Rateweb). On current numbers, the ANC would need a partner.
Which other Eastern Cape councils are close?
In Dr Beyers Naudé, which includes Graaff-Reinet, the DA had 39.54% and the ANC 37.35% with 88% counted, leaving the PA on 15.25% in a position to hold the balance of power. In Kouga, which includes Jeffreys Bay, the DA had 67.98% with 54% counted (IOL).
In Nelson Mandela Bay, the DA was ahead of the ANC, 41.38% to 26.22%, with 25% counted (IOL).
When will results be final?
The declaration of results is expected on Sunday, and councils without a majority then have two weeks to form coalitions, Reuters reported.
How can you check your ward?
Use the IEC's official results dashboard: choose Eastern Cape, then your municipality and ward.
FAQ
How is the ANC doing in the Eastern Cape?
It had 47.39% with 34% of the provincial vote counted on the morning of 5 November, down from more than 60% in the 2024 provincial election.
Who is leading in Buffalo City?
The ANC, on 38.37% with 30% counted, ahead of the DA on 21.83% and the UDM on 18.72%.
How many seats are needed to govern Buffalo City?
51 of the council's 100 seats.