Political parties RISE Mzansi and GOOD have announced a “strategic cooperation framework” that will see both parties partner up to contest the 2026 local government election in November.

In a joint statement on Friday, the parties said they were building the partnership on a foundation of shared values and purpose for a new political future in South Africa.

As part of the agreement, the parties say regional strength will serve as the groundwork for the selection process for campaign leadership.

“…RISE Mzansi will lead the campaign in Gauteng municipalities with GOOD party members and representatives fully incorporated into their structures, while the GOOD party will head the campaign in the Western Cape with RISE Mzansi members integrated into theirs, whereas in all other contested municipal areas, both parties will implement a strict joint candidate selection process to ensure that only the most capable public representatives are put forward,” the parties explained.

This would ensure maximum operational efficiency and electoral impact, they said, noting their common goal for political renewal.

RISE Mzansi and GOOD said the records of some political parties have shown patronage, division, dysfunction and neglect when it comes to service delivery.

Both parties aim to restore trust in local government through effective municipal governance.

“Our agreement enables both parties to combine our strengths, coordinate our campaigns, and put forward the strongest possible candidates and leadership teams in municipalities across the country, while maintaining our respective political identities,” they said.

The collaboration, they added, formed part of a broader political realignment and said organisational consolidation must take place after the election.

“We will continue working toward deeper convergence ahead of the 2029 National and Provincial Elections, while remaining open to other like-minded political and civic formations who share our democratic values and reform agenda,” the parties said.