As political parties prepare for the local government elections on November 4, a new crop of candidates in eThekwini are stepping forward,

As political parties prepare for the local government elections (LGE) on November 4, a new crop of candidates in eThekwini are stepping forward, saying that communities need younger leaders who understand the daily realities of residents.

Across parts of eThekwini, younger candidates (in their 20s and 30s) are entering the political arena, bringing with them backgrounds in healthcare, media, business, community development and grassroots activism.

The POST spoke to some first-time ward councillor candidates from various political parties.

Nikita Govender, 29, of Phoenix, said that while it was her first time contesting an election, she had been involved in community and political work for four years.

She will contest in ward 110, which includes Southgate, Daleview, Sunningdale, Glen Anil and Mount Moriah.

Govender, a media liaison officer for the IFP Minority Desk, assisting residents with community and service-delivery matters, entered politics because she believed young people should be part of the solutions.

“I wanted to use my energy, skills, and voice to serve my community and contribute towards creating positive change,” said Govender.

“Local politics, which is the coalface of interaction between the municipality and residents, allows me to represent the residents and turn their concerns into actionable solutions. Public service means putting people first, listening to their concerns and being accountable for delivering results.”

Govender said service delivery, infrastructure, and unemployment, or limited economic opportunities, were among her priorities.

Source: https://iol.co.za/thepost/news/2026-09-18-young-ethekwini-candidates-set-out-their-priorities-ahead-of-local-elections/