Kenny Kunene- In the evolving landscape of South African politics, few rivalries have become as intense and high-stakes as that between the Democratic Alliance (DA) and the Patriotic Alliance (PA). These two parties increasingly find themselves targeting the same urban voter base in key metros, particularly in Johannesburg and Cape Town. At the heart of this growing political showdown is Kenny Kunene, deputy mayoral candidate for Johannesburg representing the PA.
Kenny Kunene, known for his outspoken political style and bold persona, has made it clear that he is not threatened by the DA’s choice of Helen Zille as their mayoral candidate for Johannesburg in the 2026 local government elections. In fact, Kunene openly questions the relevance and effectiveness of Zille in addressing the challenges facing the city.
Speaking on the sidelines of a service delivery programme in Soweto this week, Kunene expressed confidence in the Patriotic Alliance’s growing support in areas historically dominated by the DA.
“In recent by-elections in Johannesburg, we’ve seen the people shifting towards the PA,” said Kenny Kunene. “They are tired of empty promises. We are the ones who are visible in communities, solving real issues, not just showing up during election season.”
This shift in political sentiment is not limited to Johannesburg. Several DA wards in the Western Cape, long considered untouchable by opposition parties, have begun to show signs of vulnerability. The PA’s ground-level campaigning and message of community empowerment appear to be resonating with voters who feel left behind by mainstream politics.
Kenny Kunene Questions Zille’s Connection to Johannesburg
The PA candidate didn’t hold back in criticizing his opponent, Helen Zille, questioning her ability to lead Johannesburg effectively.
“They are bringing a reject of Cape Town,” said Kunene, referring to Zille’s previous tenure as mayor of the Mother City. “Helen Zille could not perform in Cape Town. She worked for the suburbs. She does not even have a house here in Johannesburg. So how is she going to deal with the issues of Johannesburg when she doesn’t even know them?”
Zille, who served as Mayor of Cape Town from 2006 to 2009 and was awarded “World Mayor of the Year” in 2008 by the international think tank City Mayors Foundation, remains one of the DA’s most recognizable figures. However, Kunene is adamant that her achievements are overblown and not reflective of the needs of Johannesburg’s diverse and struggling communities.
Kunene’s candidacy recently came under scrutiny due to reports linking him to controversial underworld figure Katiso “KT” Molefe. Allegations surfaced that Kunene was found at Molefe’s residence during a police raid connected to the murder of Oupa John Sefoka, better known as DJ Sumbody.
However, Kenny Kunene has since been cleared of any wrongdoing, with investigators finding no credible evidence to implicate him in the case. The PA has stood firmly behind their candidate, stating that the allegations were politically motivated and aimed at tarnishing his image ahead of the elections.
“I have nothing to hide,” Kunene told reporters. “My conscience is clear, and my only focus now is on delivering for the people of Johannesburg.”
One of the cornerstones of Kunene’s campaign is improving service delivery in the city’s most neglected areas. While major political parties often focus on top-down policy debates, Kenny Kunene has emphasized the importance of being physically present in communities, listening to residents, and providing tangible results.
“Our people don’t need another career politician. They need someone who understands the pain of potholes, power cuts, water shortages, and unemployment,” said Kenny Kunene.
The PA has launched several community-based initiatives in recent months, ranging from food distribution to fixing broken infrastructure — efforts that Kunene says reflect the party’s commitment to real change.
The increasing competition between the DA and the PA is set to be one of the defining narratives of the 2026 local government elections. With both parties fighting for urban voters disillusioned by the ANC and other traditional powerhouses, the stakes couldn’t be higher.
While the DA continues to lean on high-profile figures like Zille and its legacy of governance in the Western Cape, the PA, with Kenny Kunene at the forefront, is positioning itself as the party of action, energy, and grassroots engagement.
Whether Kunene’s bold strategy will translate into votes remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the political battleground in Johannesburg is heating up, and Kenny Kunene is not backing down.
Source- EWN
