The African Renaissance Unity party was launched in Durban on 25 July 2026 ahead of local government elections.
The African Renaissance Unity (ARU) was announced at a media briefing in Durban. Sphephile Mahlaba, the interim leader and former MK Party member, said the party would focus on community-based leadership and agriculture.
Mahlaba stated: “ARU is a political party that is here to stay for a long time, and we are going to take people that are people-centered and people that understand the ills of the community.” He added that the party would seek land from the king to commercialize agricultural products and reduce poverty.
Former MK Party founder Jabulani Khumalo expressed support. He urged his members to vote for ARU in the local elections and said the groups would work together in 2029.