ActionSA celebrated what it called “a remarkable resurgence” in Soweto, as it emerged as the second-biggest political party in ward 130, saying this strengthens its position as a political party capable of challenging the African National Congress (ANC).

The ANC retained the ward during Wednesday’s by-elections, after it became vacant following the passing of its councillor Thulani Buthelezi.

ActionSA deputy president Dr Mbahare Kekana said ActionSA tripled its support despite fierce competition from established parties, whose campaigns he said offered recycled promises.

ActionSA won outright the eMseni voting district, closely trailing the ANC in the overall ward result.

“Yesterday’s by-election proved that ActionSA is strengthening its position as the only political party capable of mounting a real challenge to the ANC and other established parties, winning support that stretches from South Africa’s largest townships to its suburban communities,” stated Kekana.

He said ActionSA would continue to strengthen its position in Soweto and communities across South Africa, using Wednesday’s success as a launchpad to expand its support, as the local government election looms.

He said the party would campaign through community engagement and on fixing local governance, where he said ActionSA had consistently demonstrated its capability and commitment.

“Following an unfavourable 2024 result, every indicator now shows that our efforts to rebuild and reclaim support are bearing fruit. ActionSA is steadily becoming the political home for South Africans who are gatvol and hungry for action to reverse the decline of our country,” Kekana stated.

ActionSA expressed gratitude to its activists and leaders, and ward candidate Siyabonga Zwane, whose leadership and “strong community roots”, it believed anchored the campaign.

“This outcome sends a powerful message: the people of Soweto are no longer prepared to be taken for granted, and ActionSA is the alternative they trust to challenge the ANC and other failed parties,” Kekana said.

ActionSA will now use its momentum to focus on ward seven in the North West in the upcoming by-election.