Xolani Khumalo elected As Ekurhuleni Mayor

ActionSA announced TV host and anti-crime activist Xolani Khumalo as its mayoral candidate for Ekurhuleni in the upcoming 2026 local government elections. Khumalo is known for his work on the television show Sizok’thola, which confronts alleged drug dealers and targets criminal activities.

Khumalo’s candidacy comes after he faced legal challenges in 2023 when he was charged with murder, robbery, and malicious damage to property following a filming incident where an alleged drug dealer died. The charges were provisionally withdrawn in April 2025, allowing him to return to his show before being named as a candidate.

• Fighting crime and corruption: Khumalo has pledged to create an independent anti-corruption unit in his administration if elected. He stated the unit would have “teeth” and “cannot be captured”.
• Focusing on service delivery: He has promised to restore basic services, clean water, and working streetlights to forgotten communities in Ekurhuleni.
• “Reclaiming” Ekurhuleni: ActionSA and Khumalo have committed to reclaiming the metro from criminal elements and providing a “fresh start” for residents.
• Drawing on his past experience: Khumalo has indicated that his experiences fighting crime and drug syndicates, both on his show and as an activist, will influence his political approach.