The Democratic Alliance has emerged as the biggest recipient of political donations in the first quarter of the 2026/27 financial year, while the Electoral Commission has raised compliance concerns over declarations linked to the ANC.

Political parties declared a combined R116.8 million in compliant donations between 1 April and 30 June 2026.

The DA accounted for about 89% of that amount, declaring more than R104 million.

DA dominates political fundraising

The DA declared R104.03 million in donations during the quarter, consisting of about R98.75 million in monetary contributions and R5.28 million in in-kind support.

Among its biggest contributors were Fynbos Ekwiteit and Fynbos Kapitaal, investment vehicles linked to Capitec founder Michiel le Roux.

The two entities contributed a combined R55 million.

Other parties reported significantly smaller amounts.

ActionSA declared R5.5 million, the Labour Party of South Africa reported R5 million and RISE Mzansi declared R2.25 million.

IEC flags ANC declarations

The IEC said submissions relating to R15.27 million in ANC donations did not meet requirements under the Political Funding Act and disclosure framework.

The compliance problems included missing dual disclosures, declarations not being submitted by either the donor or recipient, missing proof of transactions, inadequate supporting documents and late reporting.

Most of the affected donations were linked to the Batho Batho Trust.

The IEC therefore excluded the transactions from its total of compliant donations.

However, the commission stressed that this did not mean the underlying donations were unlawful.

The ANC has been issued with a Section 15 direction to address the deficiencies.

Fundraising rises ahead of elections

The latest figures come as political parties prepare for the local government elections scheduled for 4 November.

The IEC expects both the volume and value of political donations to increase as parties intensify fundraising, campaigning and voter mobilisation.

The latest disclosures highlight a significant fundraising advantage for the DA while placing renewed scrutiny on whether parties are meeting the legal requirements governing private political funding.