South Africa is experiencing a significant shift in public sentiment, with citizens expressing deep disillusionment with traditional political figures and a notable preference for non-political personalities like Patrice Motsepe, ahead of the 2026 Local Government Elections. Public opinion suggests a desire for fresh faces not embroiled in the political game. Mining magnate and football club owner, Patrice Motsepe, currently holds the highest favourability score, significantly outpacing established politicians. President Cyril Ramaphosa achieved a neutral score, while many others received negative ratings. Almost half of the population feels unrepresented by any political party. The focus for citizens is on tangible action regarding jobs, corruption, and crime, rather than political rhetoric. This evolving perspective on leadership is a critical development as the country approaches the 2026 Local Government Elections.
Patrice Motsepe: The People's Choice for South Africa Politics
A recent survey by the Social Research Foundation (SRF) and The Common Sense publication highlights a substantial change in how South Africans perceive their leaders. Patrice Motsepe, known for his ownership of Mamelodi Sundowns and his mining ventures, is the most liked public figure, despite not being an active politician. He achieved a net favourability score of eleven. This is a significant outcome, especially when most other political figures received negative scores.
President Cyril Ramaphosa was the only other individual who did not receive a negative score, registering a zero. This indicates an equal proportion of favourable and unfavourable views towards him. This trend suggests a public yearning for leaders outside the conventional political establishment. Frans Cronje from the SRF noted that Motsepe's score is comparable to the combined scores of his rivals. Motsepe has consistently stated, "I am not interested in political office."
Why Patrice Motsepe Resonates with Citizens
Patrice Motsepe's appeal stems from his background as a successful businessman who built an empire, rather than rising through party ranks. He is perceived as an individual who achieves results, understands the daily struggles of citizens, and is not merely making promises for votes. His work ethic and success are widely respected, symbolising what can be achieved through hard work in a country where many are striving for a better life.
Traditional Politicians Face Public Discontent
The poll delivered stark results for traditional politicians, with most receiving considerable negative feedback. Leaders of the African National Congress (ANC), for instance, recorded high negative ratings. Paul Mashatile, the ANC's Deputy President, scored a negative 24. Fikile Mbalula, the Secretary-General, received a negative 16. Julius Malema of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) and Jacob Zuma of the uMkhonto weSizwe Party both registered the highest negative scores at 29 each.
Democratic Alliance (DA) politicians fared slightly better but still recorded negative scores. Geordin Hill-Lewis and Cilliers Brink both had a negative six. John Steenhuisen, the former DA leader, scored a negative ten. These figures underscore widespread public fatigue with familiar political figures and narratives.
Erosion of Trust in South Africa's Democracy
Beyond individual politicians, there is a broader decline in public trust in the democratic system itself. South Africa's 30th anniversary of democracy in 2024 was marked by concerns rather than celebration. Many citizens feel the ANC has not fulfilled its promises. Voter turnout in the 2024 general election reached a record low of 58.57% of registered voters, or 41% of the eligible voting-age population. This indicates a significant problem with civic engagement.
Young people, in particular, are disengaging from the electoral process. Only 16% of registered voters were between 20 and 29 years old in 2024. A 2024 Afrobarometer survey indicated that only 43% of South Africans still support democracy, a notable decrease from 2018. Confidence in Parliament also declined from 58% in 2004 to just 27% in 2023. The promise of a better life seems to be diminishing for many citizens.
Key Public Concerns: Jobs, Corruption, and Crime
Citizens' primary concerns are not abstract political debates but practical issues affecting their daily lives: job creation, combating corruption, and ensuring public safety. These three issues are paramount. This highlights a demand for leaders who can deliver tangible solutions, especially at the local government level. The upcoming 2026 Local Government Elections, scheduled between November 2026 and January 2027, are therefore crucial.
Ipsos research conducted from late 2025 to early 2026 found that almost half (47%) of South Africans feel unrepresented by any political party, despite the existence of over 500 registered parties. Only 38% believe their local governments are performing effectively. Mari Harris, a Political Analyst at Ipsos, stated, "South Africans are caught between disillusionment and determination." This tension is expected to define the upcoming elections, emphasising the need for leaders who understand and can address the daily challenges faced by citizens.
Youth Disillusionment: A Fading Hope for the Future
The 'born free' generation, those who grew up post-1994, are particularly disillusioned, having experienced persistent poverty, inadequate services, and frequent power cuts. In 2019, only 56% of young people aged 18-29 registered to vote, with their turnout significantly lower than the national average. A study by the IEC and HSRC revealed low trust in the political system. Trust in the IEC in KwaZulu-Natal, for example, plummeted from 54% in 2004 to just 6% in 2025.
This disengagement is not merely apathy but a profound disappointment. Young people still value voting but doubt its efficacy in bringing about change. To re-engage them, leaders must demonstrate that their votes matter, that institutions are trustworthy, and that government is responsive to their needs. Rebuilding this trust is essential for the future of the country.
