Al Jama-ah expands its footprint in the Eastern Cape

Media Statement

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

12 September 2026

AL JAMA-AH EXPANDS INFLUENCE IN EASTERN CAPE THROUGH HISTORIC ROYAL PARTNERSHIPS AND LOCAL COMMUNITY INITIATIVES

CHRIS HANI DISTRICT, SOUTH AFRICA— Political party AL JAMA-AH is making significant strides in the Eastern Cape, expanding its representation and footprint across the Chris Hani District Municipality. Building on years of dedicated engagement with traditional leaders and rural communities, the party is positioned to secure six seats in the region.

The expansion is rooted in AL JAMA-AH’s ongoing work alongside traditional institutions, including the historic Qamata Great Palace, the seat of the Matanzima royal family. Known for its historical role in the region and providing security for Nelson Mandela following his release, the palace represents a pivotal foundation of traditional leadership. Marking a memorable moment of cultural bridge-building two years ago, the Deputy Cabinet Minister personally sang for the King on his birthday, becoming the first Deputy Cabinet Minister to extend such a tribute to a monarch.

AL JAMA-AH is actively contesting multiple municipalities within the Chris Hani District, including Sintele, Lady Frere, and Intsika Yethu (Pedi). The party’s grass-roots efforts and community initiatives are delivering tangible results across these areas:

* Sintele: Honoring historical heritage, AL JAMA-AH facilitated the return of the remains of King Moshoeshoe from Robben Island.

* Lady Frere: The party continues to drive economic empowerment by supporting a local blanket manufacturing initiative to generate jobs and local economic vitality.

* Intsika Yethu (Pedi):Following a competitive by-election, AL JAMA-AH has secured the balance of power and is set to take the Mayoral seat through a strategic coalition with the Pan Africanist Congress (PAC) and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF).

Having already locked in 3 Proportional Representation (PR) seats, AL JAMA-AH is within range of securing an additional 3 seats, bringing its total projected council presence to 6 seats in the Eastern Cape.

This momentum underscores the growing resonance of AL JAMA-AH’s platform, which combines respect for traditional leadership with practical community development throughout the province.