Premium: Choice between rationality and emotion prevail in post-election power-broking

Since Monday, my attention has been focused on SA's Local Elections. Logically, because there is much at stake for the beleaguered city where I live.

Those who live in Johannesburg appreciate how much it has deteriorated under the corrupt and incompetent rule of the ANC. The decline has hit our pockets through higher local tax hikes via inflated property valuations and the highest municipal rates in SA. Many have opted out, "semigrating" to Cape Town where governance is better and local taxes provide greater value. It has been the rational choice.

After the past few days, however, there's hope. With 97% of Monday's votes counted, the ANC's share of Joburg is down ten percentage points from the last election five years ago, to 34%. The EFF lost a little ground to 10.8%, so these natural partners hold a combined 45% of the votes. Which means, with the help of smaller parties an infinitely preferable DA/ActionSA alliance could now secure control of my home city.

___STEADY_PAYWALL___