Former Orlando Pirates striker Thulasizwe Mbuyane is not done with politics, even after his first shot at a councillor seat didn't go his way. Known to fans as "Juju," the ex-footballer is still keen to keep building his political journey ahead of the 2026 Local Government Elections.

He stepped into the race as a councillor candidate for Ward 67 in the City of Tshwane, running for the Economic Liberators Forum South Africa (ELF-SA). The ward went to ANC candidate Sizwe Paulos Clifton Tsiane, while Mbuyane pulled in 32 votes, roughly 0.5% of the ward ballot. Not the result he wanted, but it hasn't slowed him down.

For Mbuyane, this was never just about swapping his boots for a political job. He has said he wants to be more hands-on in solving the problems facing ordinary people, especially in his hometown of Mamelodi in Pretoria. Before the elections, he told IOL Sport that community work had always been part of his life, even while he was playing. His football schedule just didn't leave much room for it back then.

Fans will remember him as a key part of the Orlando Pirates squad that won the historic domestic treble in the 2011/12 season. He was known for his attacking play, big goals and memorable celebrations. These days he co-hosts the podcast *Onside: Back 2 Kasi*, where he talks football and sport.

So what's next? The bigger question is how he keeps his community work going after the campaign trail goes quiet. Unemployment, youth development, infrastructure and basic services are still massive issues in many South African communities, and they need people who stick around and show up consistently.

The former Pirates favourite may have left the pitch behind, but he clearly wants to stay relevant in the lives of everyday South Africans. For Juju, this could be just the first chapter.

So be honest, should a former footballer get a second shot at politics after losing, or should he stick to the mic and the pitch? Drop your take below and tag a Pirates fan who needs to weigh in.

Source https://x.com/KickOffMagazine/status/2120600016276316504?a=bP6ZaEMWQPgR6IfgHKc&s=19