Cosatu shifts from exclusive ANC backing to multi-party left pact ahead of 2026 polls

South Africa's largest trade union federation, Cosatu, has formally broken with its tradition of exclusive electoral support for the ANC, with new president Mike Shingange endorsing a left-wing 'super pact' that includes the SACP and other left-leaning parties. This marks a significant realignment of labor politics ahead of the 2026 local elections, potentially fragmenting the ANC's traditional voter base. The move is confirmed by Cosatu's conference statements, though the practical impact on ANC support remains uncertain.