Herman Mashaba, the leader of ActionSA, has confirmed that the party is feeling the pressure from MKP, an organization known for its political influence, as it positions itself for future political battles. Despite these challenges, Mashaba remains resolute in his decision to lead ActionSA independently, focusing on the party’s growth and long-term success ahead of the 2026 elections.
In the aftermath of the 2024 national elections, where ActionSA secured six seats in Parliament, Mashaba and the party’s spokesperson, Michael Beaumont, have opted to step back from parliamentary duties to focus on strengthening the party. Instead of direct involvement in legislative activities, they are prioritizing building up ActionSA’s base in anticipation of a more competitive election cycle in 2026. Mashaba’s move to take a backseat comes as ActionSA seeks to expand its reach and influence across South Africa, particularly as the political landscape shifts with a growing coalition government.
The decision reflects Mashaba’s long-term vision for ActionSA, which is to solidify its position as a strong opposition force. The party’s leadership remains confident that its current parliamentary team, with experience in key areas like governance, economic development, and health, will effectively advocate for ActionSA’s policies in the National Assembly.
While the political environment becomes more complex, with MKP and other political players becoming increasingly active, Mashaba’s focus remains on growing his party’s presence and preparing it for the challenges of the 2026 local government elections. As Mashaba puts it, the time has come for ActionSA to not only oppose the ruling party but also to offer a viable alternative for South Africans disillusioned with traditional politics.
