The African National Congress (ANC) has dismissed the defection of Ward 39 councillor Thembinkosi Mjuza to the Democratic Alliance (DA) as insignificant. According to the ANC, Mjuza’s move stems from his inability to garner sufficient community backing during the party’s internal candidate selection process. The party suggests this lack of local support was the primary driver behind his decision to switch affiliations. This dismissal aims to minimize the impact of the defection on the ANC's political standing within the ward. The ANC views the situation as a result of internal party dynamics rather than a broader rejection of its policies. They imply Mjuza recognized his limited prospects within the ANC due to a lack of grassroots support. The party did not elaborate on potential consequences stemming from Mjuza's move.