Apostle Mxolisi Phakathi - EWN

The 44-year-old is the MKP's national chairperson and the second mayoral candidate, after an initial nominee was ousted due to internal matters. Phakathi became a church leader at age 24. He initially was part of the African Transformation Movement in 2019, chairing the party in the province before he crossed the floor.

“Reclaim People’s Power. Restore Dignity. Deliver.”

Phakati pitches a government of the people that would restore residents’ dignity and deal decisively with corruption, with consequences for wrongdoing.

Phakathi’s plan rests on four pillars: water, healthcare, employment and housing. He wants to ensure major water leaks are fixed within 48 hours. Healthcare should be brought closer to people in rural regions.

Small businesses should receive support, including skills development. And stalled housing projects should be finalized.

The MKP is poised as a frontrunner for the eThekwini election. But not with an outright majority - meaning smaller parties may be the kingmaker in this election. The MKP is also at risk from within, amid ongoing high-profile reshuffles and no apparent stable succession plan for the party’s leadership.