JOHANNESBURG, Tuesday 20 October 2026 — Al Jama-ah’s Johannesburg mayoral candidate, Ashley Mama, has ruled out entering a coalition with the Democratic Alliance (DA) following the 4 November local government elections, while indicating that the party remains open to negotiations with other political formations.
Mama outlined the party’s position during its election manifesto launch in Orlando East, Soweto, according to a statement issued by Al Jama-ah on Tuesday.
The mayoral candidate said differences over Israel and Palestine were central to the party’s refusal to consider a governing arrangement with the DA.
“The only party we won’t work with is the DA. All other parties, we are completely open to engaging with,” Mama said.
He said Al Jama-ah remained committed to its position on Palestine and would consider working with other parties in municipal government.
Mama Expects Coalition Politics to Continue
Mama said coalition governments were likely to remain a feature of South African politics, particularly in metropolitan municipalities where no single party commands an outright majority.
“Coalitions are here to stay for the next 30 years,” he said.
According to the party, Mama believes political parties will need to find common ground while maintaining their respective political principles.
Johannesburg has experienced several changes in political leadership since the 2021 municipal elections, with multiparty arrangements playing a role in determining the city’s executive leadership.
The city is currently led by ANC mayor Dada Morero, whose administration operates through a multiparty governing arrangement.
Al Jama-ah Targets 10 Johannesburg Council Seats
Al Jama-ah currently holds three seats in the Johannesburg City Council and is aiming to increase its representation to 10 in the upcoming elections.
Mama said the party was campaigning to expand its support across the municipality.
“Al Jama-ah had three seats before the Ashley Mama effect entered. I’m on the ground aiming. I don’t know the potential of what we can have, but we’re aiming for 10 seats,” he said.
The party said increasing its council representation would strengthen its ability to participate in municipal decision-making and negotiations over the city’s future administration.
Party Previously Held Johannesburg Mayoral Position
Al Jama-ah has previously held the Johannesburg mayoralty through two of its councillors.
Thapelo Amad served as executive mayor from January until April 2023, while Kabelo Gwamanda held the position from May 2023 until August 2024.
Both assumed office through council elections following political negotiations among parties represented in the municipality.
Al Jama-ah has identified Mama as its mayoral candidate for the 2026 elections and said it would consider putting him forward for the position if an opportunity arose after the vote.
Johannesburg’s next executive mayor will be elected by municipal councillors following the local government elections, rather than being elected directly by voters.
The final composition of the council after 4 November will determine which parties can form a governing majority and whether new coalition arrangements will be required.
