Data from the Social Research Foundation (SRF) confirms that Jacob Zuma has a commanding lead as KwaZulu-Natal’s most popular political figure, with 64% of voters in the province viewing him favourably and only 21% unfavourably. By contrast, Cyril Ramaphosa is seen favourably by just 36% of voters in KwaZulu-Natal, while 46.0% hold an unfavourable opinion.

Zuma’s enduring popularity poses a significant strategic challenge for the ANC, which saw its support in KwaZulu-Natal fall during the 2024 general election. While there are strong calls from voters in other provinces, such as Gauteng, for the party to act firmly against corruption and state capture, such actions risk deepening perceptions among KwaZulu-Natal voters that the party is engaged in factional infighting. This complicates national recovery prospects for the African National Congress (ANC), as balancing these competing demands may alienate key support bases.

With local government polls due in 2026 or 2027, analysts expect the ANC could face further setbacks unless it achieves the internal unity and consensus to move towards reform.