GIYANI: The African National Congress (ANC) has come under fire in Giyani after a campaign billboard erected ahead of the 2026 Local Government Elections allegedly misspelled the Xitsonga language, sparking anger among residents who accuse the ruling party of disrespecting the Tsonga-speaking community.

It reads” A Hi Yaka Mahlweni Hi Ya Ka Miganga Leyinene Hinkwavu Hi Ri Swinwe”

Correction: ” A Hi Yeni Mahlweni Hi Aka Miganga Leyinene Hinkwerhu Hi Ri Swinwe”

Meaning: “Let’s Go Forward in Building Our Good Communities Together”

The billboard, positioned at the main entrance to Giyani, has drawn criticism from residents who argue that the error reflects a lack of attention to the language and cultural identity of the people the party is seeking to represent.

Some residents have questioned whether the party consulted Xitsonga speakers before approving the campaign material, while others have alleged that printing tenders may have been awarded to service providers without sufficient knowledge of the language.

The controversy has also raised questions about the ANC branch leadership in Giyani and how the billboard was approved for display despite the apparent spelling error.

The incident comes as political parties prepare to contest the 2026 Local Government Elections, with service delivery, accountability and community representation expected to feature prominently in their campaigns.

The ANC has governed Greater Giyani Local Municipality for much of the democratic era. Its electoral performance and record in local government will therefore remain important considerations for voters as they assess the party’s campaign promises against its performance in office.

The ANC was not immediately available for comment.

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