MK Party and ATM Forge Alliance in Preparation for 2026 South African Elections

In an unprecedented step towards solidifying their political stance and influence ahead of the 2026 local government elections, South Africa's third-largest political party, the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party, and the African Transformation Movement (ATM) have officially announced a coalition. This partnership was publicly declared following a significant meeting in Durban on March 5, where leaders and representatives aligned on shared values, principles, and objectives aimed at transforming the political landscape of South Africa.

The joint statement released by both parties emphasized their commitment to addressing the incomplete emancipation of colonized and oppressed individuals in South Africa. The coalition's stated goal is to create a unified response to empower these communities effectively. As part of their agreement, the MK Party, led by Jacob Zuma, and the ATM, headed by Vuyo Zungula, will collaborate closely on various political, community, and parliamentary initiatives.

A specific emphasis has been placed on strategic planning for not only the upcoming local government elections but also the 2029 general elections. To this end, the secretary-generals from both parties have been tasked with organizing smaller bilateral discussions to finalize the operational strategies of this alliance.

Additionally, this newly formed coalition has issued a call to action for other progressive political groups and individuals within South Africa, urging them to support and engage with this transformative movement. This collaborative spirit was likened to the broader political trend observed in January when ActionSA allied with the Forum 4 Service Delivery (F4SD), reflecting a growing inclination among opposition parties towards unification and strengthened collective impact.

This pivotal alliance between the MK Party and the ATM could reshape political dynamics in South Africa, presenting a united front that challenges the established political framework and aims to garner substantial support from a populace disenchanted with current governance.