Demonstrations likely around 2026 SONA – Cape Town CBD (12 Feb 2026)

10 Feb 2026

Situation Overview

The Presidency has announced that the 2026 SONA is expected to be hosted at Cape Town City Hall on 12/02/2026. The event is likely to attract heightened security deployments and increased public movement in the Cape Town CBD.

Given the political and symbolic significance of SONA, demonstrations are assessed as likely in the lead-up to the event, during proceedings, and in the immediate aftermath, particularly within the city centre and along key access routes.

Assessment: Drivers of Potential Demonstrations

Demonstrations are likely to be driven by a combination of persistent domestic grievances and broader political developments. Public frustration may centre on unemployment, crime (including gender-based violence and femicide), illegal mining, service delivery shortcomings and cost-of-living pressures, all of which remain key national pressure points.

The SONA is also expected to occur amid elevated attention on South Africa’s international and economic positioning. A central issue is likely to be South Africa’s role in the G20 Presidency (2025), alongside reported diplomatic strain with the United States, including allegations of a partial boycott and indications that South Africa may be restricted from attending certain G20 events hosted by the USA in 2026. Closely linked to this, the extension of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) by the US Government to 31 December 2026 may be a prominent topic, particularly in relation to South Africa’s stance and potential economic impacts.

Economic reform may also be referenced in relation to South Africa’s participation in the 2026 World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos (January 2026), where the country’s structural reform agenda — reportedly viewed as successful by the Minister of Finance — is expected to have been a point of discussion.

Further national debate is likely around South Africa’s diplomatic relationships with several countries, including Palestine, Israel, Venezuela, Iran, Russia, China and Cuba, as well as broader international tensions. This may include discussion around the impact of tariff increases implemented by the USA against South Africa and the potential knock-on effects on trade and economic stability.

Domestically, outcomes of law enforcement operations such as Operation Vulindlela and Operation Vala Umgodi may feature, alongside debate around infrastructure funding and delivery, particularly related to roads, water and electricity. The country’s financial standing is also expected to be a focus, including GDP projections, the performance of state-owned enterprises (SOEs), and the possibility of electricity tariff increases.

Finally, political stability is likely to remain a key theme, particularly regarding the cohesion and durability of the Government of National Unity (GNU). Differences between member parties on governance priorities — including foreign policy, education and healthcare-related legislation — may be amplified by early discussion around the upcoming 2026 Local Government Elections, expected between November 2026 and February 2027, as political parties begin campaigning and logistical preparations.

Risk Assessment

Risks associated with protest activity include:

·         Heavy foot traffic and congestion in the CBD

·         Loitering and intimidation in high-traffic areas

·         Clashes between demonstrators and law enforcement/security forces

·         Potential escalation linked to opportunistic criminality in crowded areas

Expected Impact: Traffic & Access Disruption

Road closures and significant congestion are expected before, during and after the event, particularly along the following routes: Darling Street, Corporation Street, Longmarket Street, Parade, Buitenkant Street, Commercial Street, Roeland Street, Dean Street, Sir Lowry Road, M3, Anzio Road, Settlers Way/N2, Princess Anne Avenue, Klipper Road, and Newlands Avenue/M63.

Recommendations

·         Avoid Cape Town City Hall and surrounding CBD areas on 12 February 2026, and plan for disruption in the surrounding days.

·         Allow extra travel time and use alternative routes where possible.

·         Monitor official law enforcement and municipal traffic advisories for closures and crowd movement updates.