Chris Pappas has been announced as the Democratic Alliance’s (DA) mayoral candidate for uMngeni Local Municipality ahead of the 2026 local government elections.
The DA's Chris Pappas, the mayor of uMngeni Local Municipality in the KwaZulu-Natal is seeking re-election in the November local government polls, saying that there have been vast improvements in the running of the town.
Pappas was announced this weekend as the mayoral candidate for the DA. He has been leading the municipality since 2021, when the DA wrested control from the ANC with just 42 votes. Since taking over, the municipality has been credited with significant strides in both governance and service delivery.
Speaking at the announcement of his return as mayor, Pappas said, “This is a celebration of what we have achieved together and a commitment to do more. Five years ago, the people of uMngeni made a courageous decision: a decision decided by just 42 votes. Forty-two votes changed the direction of this municipality. Forty-two votes proved that every single vote matters.
“But while others talked, we worked. While others complained, we governed. While others made excuses, we delivered. Together, we proved that good government is not an accident; it is a choice.
