ActionSA’s Xolani Khumalo Vows to Tackle Crime, Corruption and Service Delivery Failures in Ekurhuleni

Ekurhuleni — ActionSA’s newly announced mayoral candidate for Ekurhuleni, Xolani Khumalo, has pledged to take his fight against crime and corruption into local government, promising to “clean up the city and restore dignity” to communities across the metro.

The announcement has sparked major discussion within political circles, as Khumalo — best known for hosting the TV show Sizokuthola, where he confronted drug syndicates and crime networks — now steps into the political arena.

A Crossover from Activism to Politics

In an interview, Khumalo said his entry into politics came after ActionSA leader Herman Mashaba urged him to “fight for change on a broader scale.”

“I don’t know politics, but I know how to work,” Khumalo said. “People have suffered enough. We need leaders who understand the struggles of ordinary South Africans.”

Khumalo said his foundation’s work with drug rehabilitation and crime prevention in communities has shown him how deeply service delivery failures and unemployment feed criminal activity.

Analysts React

Political analyst Dr. Ibrahim Harvey said Khumalo’s appointment could intensify campaigning in the metro ahead of the 2026 local government elections.

“His background in fighting crime resonates with many South Africans. It’s a strategic move for ActionSA to appeal to frustrated township voters,” Harvey explained.

However, commentator Leeto Nkoana questioned whether the move reflects a decline in traditional party politics, suggesting South Africa is entering an era where celebrity figures are increasingly being turned to for political leadership.

Khumalo Defends His Appointment

When asked about critics who dismiss him as a “celebrity candidate,” Khumalo said results — not rhetoric — will define him.

“When I started Sizokuthola, no one thought I’d succeed. I proved them wrong. Now I’ll do the same in politics,” he said.
“The greatest criminals are in government. You can’t call yourself a public servant while living lavishly as people go hungry. That’s pure criminality.”

Plans for Ekurhuleni

Khumalo outlined a 10-point ActionSA plan focused on:

• Improving service delivery
• Fighting crime and corruption
• Creating an investable, reliable city
• Upgrading housing and infrastructure
• Restoring trust between communities and government

He said:

“Ekurhuleni must become a place where investors can trust the system — and residents can trust their leaders. That’s how you build a thriving city.”

Public Response

Since his announcement, Khumalo says community members have been overwhelmingly supportive.

“People are saying, ‘Xolani, take them on. Improve our city and our lives.’ This is just the beginning,” he said confidently.

Conclusion

As ActionSA gears up for next year’s elections, Khumalo’s candidacy signals the party’s intent to merge grassroots activism with political reform — a combination that could test South Africa’s evolving political landscape.