Cyril Xaba and Thabane Nyawose are reported to be among the leading contenders for the mayor of eThekwini, a position that is up for election. Multiple indications point to the ANC’s internal panel assessing potential candidates as part of the party’s selection process ahead of the mayoral race. The reports place Xaba and Nyawose prominently in the field of applicants being considered, suggesting they are viewed as viable options by the structures involved in narrowing down the final candidate list. The coverage frames the contest as being determined through the ANC’s processes rather than an open race at this stage, with the panel’s evaluation central to which individuals will advance. While details on other candidates are not provided in the available extract, the focus remains on who is currently considered most competitive. The outcome depends on the ANC’s assessment and subsequent steps within the party’s candidate-selection pathway for the eThekwini mayoral position.