“Three opposition parties — BOSA, the GOOD Party, and RISE Mzansi — have merged to form Unite for Change, a coalition promising ethical leadership, economic recovery, and improved service delivery. This alliance seeks to present a credible alternative to the ANC and DA ahead of the 2026 local elections.”
South Africa’s political landscape continues to evolve dramatically in the wake of the 2024 national elections, which saw the African National Congress (ANC) lose its outright majority for the first time since 1994. Against this backdrop, three opposition parties — Build One South Africa (BOSA), the GOOD Party, and RISE Mzansi — have announced a merger to form a coalition called Unite for Change. This development marks a significant attempt to consolidate opposition strength and reshape the country’s political center ahead of the November 2026 local government elections.
Background: A Fragmented Political System
The 2024 elections were a watershed moment. The ANC secured only 40.18% of the vote, forcing it into a Government of National Unity (GNU) with ten other parties. While this arrangement stabilized national governance, local councils remained fragmented, with coalition politics dominating metros and municipalities. Voter turnout declined sharply, reflecting widespread disillusionment with traditional parties.
The Coalition’s Leadership Collective
The leadership council of Unite for Change reflects a deliberate effort to unite diverse voices:
- Dr Mmusi Maimane (BOSA) – Former DA leader, known for his advocacy of ethical governance.
- Patricia de Lille (GOOD Party) – Veteran politician with a reputation for pragmatic leadership.
- Songezo Zibi (RISE Mzansi) – Reformist voice and former journalist, emphasizing accountability.
- Nobuntu Hlazo-Webster, Vuyiswa Ramokgopa, Brett Herron – Leaders spanning Parliament, provincial legislatures, and municipal structures.
This collective leadership signals inclusivity and a commitment to bridging divides across demographics.
Policy Agenda
The coalition has outlined a five-point agenda:
- Capable and ethical leadership – Rooting out corruption and restoring trust.
- Local economic recovery – Stimulating small businesses and job creation.
- Dignity through basic services – Ensuring reliable water, electricity, and sanitation.
- Safety and justice – Strengthening policing and judicial accountability.
- Digitisation for smart governance – Using technology to improve efficiency and combat corruption.
This agenda directly addresses the failures of service delivery and governance that have plagued municipalities under ANC leadership.
Grassroots Engagement
Unlike larger parties often criticized for top-down approaches, Unite for Change has announced a nationwide tour of town hall meetings and community dialogues. This consultative strategy aims to build legitimacy and mobilize support, particularly in urban centers where voter turnout has declined.
Implications for ANC and DA
The ANC, weakened after losing its majority, faces mounting challenges in maintaining dominance. The DA, while positioning itself as a credible alternative, struggles to expand beyond its traditional base. Unite for Change threatens both parties by offering a fresh, values-driven alternative that resonates with disillusioned voters.
Voter Sentiment
South Africans increasingly demand accountability, transparency, and effective service delivery. The coalition’s emphasis on ethical leadership and grassroots engagement may appeal to younger voters and urban populations who feel alienated by existing political structures.
Risks and Challenges
Despite its promise, Unite for Change faces challenges:
- Coalition cohesion – Merging diverse parties requires managing ideological differences.
- Resource constraints – Competing against established parties with larger budgets will be difficult.
- Electoral system dynamics – Proportional representation may dilute the coalition’s impact unless it secures broad national support.
Conclusion
The formation of Unite for Change represents a bold attempt to reshape South Africa’s political center. By uniting opposition parties under a shared vision of ethical governance and improved service delivery, the coalition seeks to challenge the dominance of the ANC and DA. Whether it succeeds will depend on its ability to maintain unity, mobilize grassroots support, and deliver on its ambitious agenda.
