ActionSA
By Thabo Mosia
ActionSA has announced a merger with the Forum 4 Service Delivery (F4SD), aiming to consolidate efforts in addressing service delivery challenges and preparing for the upcoming 2026 local government elections.
Merger Announcement and Strategic Objectives
The merger was officially declared during a media briefing in Johannesburg on Wednesday morning. Moving forward, F4SD will operate under the ActionSA banner, with its members integrating into Herman Mashaba’s organisation. Founded in 2015, F4SD has established a presence in various municipal councils across five provinces, focusing on grassroots issues such as water, sanitation, housing, and education. 
ActionSA National Chairperson Michael Beaumont emphasized that this union is a strategic move to bolster both parties’ influence in anticipation of the 2026 local government elections. He stated, “As far back as September, ActionSA was engaged by the Forum 4 Service Delivery after we had departed from the multi-party charter to talk about how we could come together, and I think that gives you a sense of how long these engagements have been going on and how much consideration was taken.” 
Integration and Operational Framework
Under the new agreement, F4SD will contest future elections under the ActionSA banner while retaining limited autonomy. This arrangement allows F4SD members to maintain dual membership, ensuring they can keep the seats they have already secured. The parties plan to amend their constitution, hold a joint elective conference within the year, and amalgamate structures at regional, provincial, and national levels.
Beaumont highlighted the importance of unity in this collaboration, stating, “We need to come together in a way that creates one organisation with one mission and one purpose for the South African people,” stressing that F4SD members join as equals.
Leadership and Vision
F4SD leader Mbahare Johannes Kekana, who has led the party since its inception, expressed his commitment to the merger, emphasizing a shared vision for South Africa’s future. He remarked, “This journey is not about ActionSA, it is not about F4SD. This journey is a calling — it is bigger than us. It is not about politics, it is about everyone who actually loves this country.”
In recognition of his leadership and the strengthened alliance, ActionSA leader Herman Mashaba announced Kekana as the new ActionSA deputy leader.
Implications for South Africa’s Political Landscape
This merger signifies a strategic consolidation within South Africa’s opposition parties, aiming to present a united front to address service delivery challenges and offer a credible alternative to the ruling party. By combining resources and aligning their missions, ActionSA and F4SD seek to enhance their impact on local governance and service delivery, particularly in municipalities where service provision has been inadequate.
The collaboration also reflects a broader trend of smaller parties uniting to amplify their influence and better serve their constituencies. For instance, in October 2023, seven political parties, including the Capricorn Independent Community Activists Forum and Thabazimbi Residents Association, merged into Forum 4 Service Delivery to contest the 2024 national and provincial elections. 
Focus on Service Delivery and Governance
Both ActionSA and F4SD have been vocal about the need to prioritize service delivery in South Africa. ActionSA has previously emphasized the importance of addressing service delivery issues in municipalities, advocating for the insourcing of workers and the establishment of structures to enhance governance. 
Similarly, F4SD has campaigned on promises of real change, focusing on anti-corruption measures and the improvement of basic services such as water, sanitation, and housing. The party has also called for the merger of the offices of the Auditor-General and the Public Protector to enhance accountability. 
🔴Central News Weekly Edition 087🔴 Download the Latest Edition | Top Story: “Building ‘The Ngwathe We Want’:
Dr Mothamaha Drives Cost-Effective
Solutions with New Fleet Acquisitions”
Download Here:
Read all our publications on magzter:
https://www.magzter.com/ZA/Central-News-Pty-Ltd/Central-News/Newspaper/All-Issues
Central News also offers Sponsored Editorial Content, Podcasts , Radio / Social Media Simulcast, Video Production , Live Streaming Services, Press Conferences, and Paid Interviews (Video/Audio) etc.
We guarantee exceptional exposure, reach, and engagement, with an excellent return on investment.
Advertisement:
To place your advert on our platforms (Print Newspaper or Digital Platforms) : Please email : sales@centralnews.co.za
For Business Related:
business@centralnews.co.za
Newsroom:
Send your Stories / Media Statements To: newsroom@centralnews.co.za
General Info:
info@centralnews.co.za
Office Administrator:
admin@centralnews.co.za
Whatsapp / Call: 081 495 5487
Website: https://www.centralnews.co.za
Social Media Platforms (@centralnewsza) : Linkedin, Facebook, Tiktok, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube