In Conversation with Bongani Baloyi: From South Africa’s Youngest Mayor to a Bold Political Pathfinder

Bongani Michael Baloyi, born on 28 February 1987 in
Thokoza, Gauteng, is a dynamic South African political
figure known for his fearless reinvention and youthful
leadership. At just 26, Baloyi made history as the youngest
Executive Mayor in South Africa when he assumed
leadership of the Midvaal Local Municipality in 2013.
Under his tenure, Midvaal consistently achieved clean
audits and improved its national performance rankings,
solidifying his reputation for governance excellence. A
former Democratic Alliance (DA) member and participant
in their Young Leaders Programme, Baloyi rose through
the ranks before resigning in 2021, citing increasing
internal toxicity.
Baloyi’s political journey reflects a spirit of bold innovation
and unflinching resolve. After a brief stint as ActionSA’s
Gauteng Provincial Chairperson, he broke away in 2023 to
form his own party, Xiluva, aimed at redefining youth-led
political engagement. Although Xiluva failed to secure
seats in the 2024 general elections, Baloyi demonstrated
humility and pragmatism by deregistering the party and
aligning with Jacob Zuma’s uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) party,
which he believes shares Xiluva’s founding ethos.
Rejecting formal positions in favour of grassroots work,
Baloyi continues to chart a unique and principled path in
South African politics—unapologetically independent anddriven by service.